We were delighted to read Susy Smith’s recent column, ‘View from here’ in the June 2023 issue of Country Living, especially her opening caption that perfectly captures the almshouse movement message that almshouses are just as important today and in the future as they were in the past :
” They may be like a quaint architectural anachronism, but almshouses could be as relevant today as they ever were”
Her almshouse enlightenment tour came about when “ a low rise, very modern block of flats was built at one end of our high street in 2020. As my daughters were thinking about renting their own place, we eyed it with interest. We liked its contemporary style: simple shape, pale brick construction with striking cut-metal balconies, evidence of a roof terrace and two good cafes beneath. “That would be a cool place to live,” said one of my girls. “I wonder what the flats are like inside.” We never found out for, when I investigated further, I was surprised to learn that the residents in these flats are probably of retirement age, with limited financial means and a strong connection to the area….the flats, it turns out, are almshouses.
“Surely not?’ I thought. Almshouses are, in my experience, splendid historic buildings with interesting features: a clocktower here, a sundial or statue there, and always a stone plaque commemorating the benefactor who bequeathed the land or paid to have them built for the local poor. The ones I know best are the Grade II-listed Rickey’s Almshouses near Richmond in Surrey, which were built in 1834 in the Tudor Gothic style. I pass them regularly -and stop to admire the architectural details. With their over-tall chimneys, stone mullioned windows and impressive crenelated frontage, they certainty cut a dash amid the surrounding shops and suburban housing stock. This new block of flats couldn’t be more different. Intrigued, I decided to investigate further…. “
To read the article in full, please click here.
posted 8 June 2023