Frome Union Workhouse, Somerset
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Frome Union Workhouse, Somerset
The Y-shaped main building of the former Frome Union Workhouse, Somerset. It was designed by Sampson Kempthorne. The site later became Selwood Hospital. Date: 2000
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 7193471
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10530035
EDITORS COMMENTS
1. Title: "Frome Union Workhouse, Somerset: A Symbol of Victorian-era Social Welfare and Hardship" This evocative photograph captures the Y-shaped main building of the former Frome Union Workhouse in Somerset, England. Designed by renowned architect Sampson Kempthorne, this imposing structure once stood as a testament to the Victorian-era social welfare system that aimed to provide for the destitute and the poor. The workhouse system, established in the late 16th century, was a significant aspect of English social policy until the mid-20th century. The primary objective of these institutions was to provide relief to the able-bodied poor, while also deterring idleness and encouraging self-sufficiency. Inmates were required to work in exchange for their keep, and the harsh conditions were intended to serve as a deterrent to those who might otherwise rely on public assistance. The Frome Union Workhouse, built in the late 1830s, is a fine example of the neoclassical architectural style popular during this period. Its grand facade, with its Doric columns and intricate detailing, belies the hardships endured within its walls. The workhouse's layout, with its central hall and radiating wings, was designed to accommodate a variety of functions, including dormitories, workshops, and dining halls. By the turn of the 21st century, the Frome Union Workhouse had been repurposed as Selwood Hospital, providing essential healthcare services to the community. This transformation reflects the evolving nature of social welfare and the recognition that compassionate care and support are crucial components of a just and equitable society. This photograph offers a poignant reminder of the complex history of the workhouse system and the enduring legacy of the men and women who lived and worked within its walls. It invites us to reflect on the past, learn from it, and strive for a more compassionate and inclusive future.
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