Photo-a-Day (Thursday, 12th May, 2016)
Alms Houses
Photo: David (Canon PowerShot SX240 HS)
been past this building numerous times as there is a short cut by the side of it to the 'woods'
what is the history of this building and why is it named 'Alms' house?
As I understand it, Alms Houses were for retired people who had been in public service. Correct me if I'm wrong. I can take constructive criticism! :O)
Good shot David!
Its obvious William Blake didnt venture out of Wigan when he wrote about "those dark satanic mills". Look at what he missed!!
I believe it is thought that Blake was referring to the disagreements between Oxford & Cambridge universities. Lovely photograph.
Good shot David. Johnny, as I understand it Alms Houses were for retired people "in need" not only those who had been in public service. The Alms houses in, Charnock Richard, were built by James Darlington for the retired mine workers from his pits. They carried a pension of 10 shillings a week; very generous in the 1860s. He also built the local church, school and "institute" as well as donating a cricket field. St John's in Coppull was another of his offerings.
These houses were known as 'The Receptacle'. It was a condition laid down by the owner, Lord Crawford, that tenants must walk to Haigh church each Sunday to attend the service.
The adjacent quarry also shared the name - being known as the Receptacle Delph.
Worked on the Alms houses in the 80s replaced all the Gothic windows,we made a template first and tried it in the openings ,they weren't far off all being the same,good stonework.
There probably all PVC now not been up close to inspect them.
Thanks for that info John (Morris)..