HISTORY

How the Almshouses looked 200 years ago

In the tree-lined streets of St John's Wood, nestled amidst the vibrant cityscape of Victorian London, stands a sanctuary that embodies the legacy of Count Simon Woronzow.

In 1827, Count Woronzow, a retired Russian ambassador, left a charitable bequest of £500 in his will. His generous gift, formally proven in 1832, laid the foundation for the St Marylebone Almshouses.

Designed to support the impoverished, elderly residents of Marylebone, Count Woronzow's act of philanthropy became a testament to his enduring compassion. His name is eponymous with the road which forms the boundary to the Almshouses.

With further support from local benefactors like Colonel Henry Samuel Eyre, who offered land at a nominal rent, the Almshouses began to take shape.

Architects John Pink and John St Erlam brought the project to life, crafting an elegant Elizabethan-style building that was completed in 1837, providing a dignified refuge for those in need.

The Almshouses became more than just a shelter. They embodied the Victorian ideals of charity, offering a lifeline to elderly residents who had fallen into hardship. The criteria ensured that the assistance went to those who had once been productive community members, reflecting the Victorian belief in supporting the "deserving poor."

By the 1840s, the almshouses had expanded to provide shelter and essential supplies. Residents received allowances of coal, bread, and firewood and, during festive seasons, small monetary gifts eased their burdens. This practical support was crucial in making life a little more comfortable for the elderly residents.

The Almshouses' success was driven by the generosity of local donors and supporters. These contributions kept the institution thriving, allowing it to continue serving those in need.

The Almshouses has evolved with the changing times but has never strayed from Count Woronzow's vision of a compassionate community.

Even after the original structure was replaced by a neo-Georgian design in 1965, the Almshouses remained a living testament to the enduring spirit of charity, continuing to care for residents in their later years.

ALMSHOUSES STORIES

KEVIN GILLIS FAMILY STORY

“My family were connected to Charles King who was a resident of St Marylebone Almshouses at the time of the 1901 Census, and at the time of his death in 1906.

Charles King was my great-great grandfather.

One of Charles’s grandsons, Alfred James King, moved to Brighton around 1920 and Alfred’s daughter married my father who was an Australian pilot in Bomber Command.

After my parents married in May 1945, my father returned to Australia in July, and my mother migrated as a War Bride in late 1945.

I have researched the life of Charles King from his birth in 1826, through to his working life as a fishmonger.

In the period between 1850 to 1881 he and his family lived in the St John’s Wood area in two different streets just south of St John’s Wood Terrace and in 1891 were living near to what is now the location of the London Canal Museum.

In 1901, a daughter of Charles was living in Anne St, which runs off St John’s Wood Terrace.

- Kevin Gillis, Australia.

If your family has a story about,or connection with the Almshouses,we would love to hear from you, email at clerk.stmarylebonealmshouses@gmail.com