Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > Somerset > Chard
Union Workhouse, Chard, Somerset
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Union Workhouse, Chard, Somerset
The Chard Union workhouse, also known locally as Sunnylands, in Chard, Somerset. The people in front are presumably the master and matron (right) and porter and nurse (left). The building, designed by George Wilkinson, was erected in 1836-8
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 4418006
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10418588
1830s 1836 Chard Drive Drive Way L Aw Master Matron Nurse Poor Porter Poverty Somerset Wilkinson Workhouse Workhouses
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Somerset
> Chard
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Somerset
> Related Images
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the Union Workhouse in Chard, Somerset, as it stood in 1906. Designed by George Wilkinson and erected between 1836 and 1838, this imposing Victorian edifice was a stark reminder of the harsh realities of poverty and destitution in rural England during the 19th century. The image shows the master and matron, resplendent in their formal attire, and the porter and nurse, standing solemnly at the entrance of the workhouse. The driveway leading up to the building, flanked by trees, adds an air of isolation and remoteness to the scene. The Union Workhouse, also locally known as Sunnylands, was established under the Poor Law Amendment Act of 1834, which aimed to reform the haphazard and often cruel workhouse system that had existed prior to this legislation. The new workhouses were designed to be self-sufficient institutions, with residents expected to work in return for their keep. Conditions were often harsh, with long hours, meagre rations, and strict discipline enforced. George Wilkinson, the architect of this particular workhouse, was a prolific designer of such institutions, having built over 50 workhouses across the country. The Chard Union Workhouse is a fine example of his design, with its symmetrical façade, tall chimneys, and grand entranceway. The building's imposing presence reflects the harsh realities of the time, when the welfare of the poor was seen as a matter for the state rather than a collective responsibility of society as a whole. This photograph offers a glimpse into a bygone era, a time when the workhouse represented the last resort for those in need, and the very concept of poverty was viewed through a very different lens.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
