The Londonderry Institute, Seaham, Durham
This building was originally the Literary and Scientific Institute. It dates from 1853-5 and was designed by Thomas Oliver in a Greek Revival style. It has an impressive portico with Doric columns. Lord Londonderry bought Seaham House and the surrounding estate in 1821. He also founded Seaham Harbour as a port to serve his collieries and planned the town behind. Many public buildings were named after him. This institute in Tempest Road is the last of these large buildings still standing.
