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Union Workhouse, Cranbrook, Kent
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Union Workhouse, Cranbrook, Kent
The Cranbrook Union workhouse, erected in 1838 at Hartley. The architect was John Whichcord
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Media ID 4464593
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10416029
1830s Architect Cranbrook Hartley Hedge Homeless Homelessness L Aw Lane Pauper Paupers Poor Poverty Workhouse Workhouses
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the imposing presence of the Union Workhouse in Cranbrook, Kent, built in 1838 and designed by architect John Whichcord. The workhouse, located in Hartley, was a stark reminder of the harsh realities of poverty and destitution in rural England during the Victorian and Edwardian eras. The image portrays a desolate scene, with the workhouse standing alone at the end of a narrow lane, surrounded by a high hedge. The building's austere facade, with its tall, narrow windows and bare brick walls, reflects the Spartan living conditions endured by its residents, who were known as paupers. The Union Workhouse system was established under the Poor Law Amendment Act of 1834, which aimed to reduce the number of paupers by forcing able-bodied individuals to work in exchange for relief. The workhouses were intended to be uninviting and unpleasant, to discourage people from seeking assistance. The photograph, taken in the 1930s, offers a glimpse into the past, providing a poignant reminder of the history of poverty and homelessness in England. The image also showcases the architectural significance of the workhouse, which is a rare surviving example of Victorian-era social welfare architecture. John Whichcord, the architect of the Cranbrook Union Workhouse, designed many other buildings in the area, including schools, churches, and private residences. His work reflects the diverse architectural styles of the time, from the ornate Gothic Revival to the simple, functional designs of the Victorian era. Today, the Cranbrook Union Workhouse stands as a testament to the past, a reminder of the challenges faced by those who lived in poverty during the 19th and early 20th centuries, and a valuable historical resource for scholars and researchers.
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