Search for information about Northampton during First World War launched by 78 Derngate ahead of centenary

Mackintosh was commissioned by Northampton model engineer W.J. Bassett-Lowke to remodel the house in 1916.

Bassett-Lowke and his new bride, Florence Jane, moved into then outlandishly modern home in March 1917. The house which was restored and opened to the public in 2003 has won multiple awards and is the number one Northampton visitor attraction on international travel website, TripAdvisor.

Now Mackintosh's other works from around the First World War period are to be shown in a 'world first' exhibition which has been funded by The Heritage Lottery. Designs which will "surprise, delight and inspire" are to feature, including work unseen for a century. The impact of the war on Mackintosh's career will be examined and the story of his last major work of architecture, 78 Derngate, will be shown in context.

David Walsh, the 78 Derngate centenary project curator, is looking for help with the exhibition from the local community.

"We want to hear from people who have information about the residents of Derngate and the town centre streets during the First World War. What were there lives like, where did they work, how were they affected by the war? Even the smallest detail will help us so please get in touch."

Alongside the exhibition, a programmed of linked talks, workshops and performances is now on sale.

Anyone with information to share can contact the 78 Derngate team via 78derngate.org.uk/100 - which also contains the latest information about the centenary exhibition and public events.

"Charles Rennie Mackintosh & The Great War" opens February 1, 2017 at 78 Derngate.