June 2020
Bogan House is one of only four grade one listed buildings in Totnes. It dates from the mid-sixteenth century, although some alterations and additions were made in later centuries. William Bogan and his wife Elizabeth are responsible for “the best plaster ceilings in Totnes”: it was probably Elizabeth’s dowry that paid for them — she was the daughter of Alan Hakewell, the third richest man in Totnes.
The DW Mitchell Trust has been carrying out a thorough restoration over the past six years. There are some small alterations internally but most of the work in the areas leased to the Costume and Textiles Museum has been has been to repair damage over time, including being hit by a lorry some years ago.
Fire retardant separation from the other buildings in the Butterwalk has been installed; previously the attics ran along the whole range of buildings.
Our pictures show the most striking restoration. The front of the building now has new sash windows and tiling. The beam supporting the ridge of the roof appears to have been cut from one branch of a tree and the bow in it will remain as the wood was found to be perfectly sound.
January 2023: Investigation of the state of the tiling
April 2023: Work in progress
February 2024: External restoration mostly complete