Trustees of The Wivenhoe Housing Trust are looking forward to joining in with the national celebrations to mark 75 years of The Almshouse Association.
This almshouse charity, based in Essex, is responsible for the provision of thirteen properties over two sites in Wivenhoe. The Mary Ann Sanford Almshouses (1873) and Jonathan Feedham Almshouses (built 1974 from a legacy bequeathed 1718)
A Celebration Garden Party is set for Saturday 18th September 2021 in the newly re-vamped courtyard at Jonathan Feedham Court. The location is most appropriate as the area has recently undergone significant improvements. The courtyard now benefits from a new drainage system. Significantly, improved access to the garden and floral beds has been achieved by raising the paved ground surface level across the yard to meet with that of the front door levels of the bungalows. The courtyard is now a much nicer space for residents to socialise enhancing opportunities for improved health and wellbeing and promoting a greater interest in plants and gardening.
The garden project had taken a few years to achieve and plans were afoot to hold an opening ceremony in 2020. Alas, pandemic restrictions meant that this couldnât go ahead.
Now, an excellent opportunity awaits the Wivenhoe Housing Trust. A Grand Celebration Garden Party will enable combine their opening ceremony with marking the 75th anniversary of the formation of The Almshouse Association. A 1940s themed afternoon will see all residents from both almshouse locations attending to enjoy afternoon tea with The Town Mayor of Wivenhoe, The Trustee Board, Representatives from The Wivenhoe Society, Wivenhoe Helping Hands and the two local schools. (A drawing competition is under way for local school children on an almshouse theme and awards will be presented at the garden party).
If available, a 1940s gramophone will play records of the era and entertainment is scheduled from The Hoolies, Wivenhoeâs Sea Shanty Crew and the Colchester Town Crier is on hand for any special announcements.
Words by Robert Needham. To read more about the renovations project, please click here .
Contacts
Robert Needham 01206 824446 noisybeggar@btinternet.com    Peter Hill 01206 823073 peter@toadhall2.co.uk  Chair of Trustees
Further information  www.wivenhoehistory.org.ukÂ
Searches:  1) Almshouses 2) Major Project at Jonathan Feedham Court
June 21
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