Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Boroughs > Bromley
Stepney Union Workhouse
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Stepney Union Workhouse
The Stepney Union workhouse on St Leonards Street, Bromley-by-Bow opened in 1873 and was designed by Henry Jarvis. After the Second Word War, it was known as Bromley House and used to house homeless families. Date: 1930s
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 7178821
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10512889
1873 Bromley Jarvis Opened Stepney Word Workhouse Designed
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the imposing presence of the Stepney Union Workhouse on St. Leonards Street in Bromley-by-Bow, which opened its doors to the needy and destitute in 1873. Designed by the renowned architect Henry Jarvis, the workhouse was a symbol of the Victorian welfare system, providing shelter, food, and employment to those who had fallen on hard times. The image, taken in the 1930s, shows the workhouse in its mature years, its red-brick facade bearing the scars of time and the elements. The high, arched windows and intricate stonework are reminiscent of a fortress, reflecting the stigma and shame associated with seeking assistance from the workhouse. After the Second World War, the Stepney Union Workhouse was repurposed and became known as Bromley House, providing temporary shelter for homeless families. The building's history as a place of last resort for those in need stands as a poignant reminder of the social and economic challenges faced by communities throughout history. This photograph offers a glimpse into the past, inviting us to reflect on the complex and often controversial history of workhouses and the welfare system they represented. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion, empathy, and the safety net provided by our communities during times of hardship.
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.