In 1639-41 they founded Hutchesons' Hospital, which provided a home for 12 elderly tradesmen and housed and educated 12 orphaned boys. The present building was designed and built in 1802-5 by David Hamilton and major reconstruction work by John Baird in 1876 resulted in today's impressive interior, with its elegant hall and staircase. Completely restored and refurbished by the Trust, which purchased it in 1982, the Hall is now available to hire for functions including concerts, dinners, receptions, seminars and presentations.
Special exhibitions take place throughout the year.
There is a Trust shop and information room with a 10 minute audio-visual programme about the Merchant City, past and present. There is a wheelchair lift to the first floor and toilet for the disabled. Parties of 20 or more must always book in advance, please. Free Directions Near south-east corner of George Square, Glasgow. Here is a typical Victorian tenement flat of 1892, a fascinating time capsule of the first half of the 20th century.