Home > Architecture > Hospitals
Union Workhouse, Leigh, Lancashire
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Union Workhouse, Leigh, Lancashire
Opened in 1851, the Union workhouse on Leigh Road, Leigh, Lancashire, later became Atherleigh Hospital. This early 1900s view focuses on the recently added workhouse offices and receiving home
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 4464379
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10415952
1850s 1851 Chimneys Commissioners Dickensian L Aw Lancashire Legal Legislation Leigh Off Ice Offices Paupers Poor Poverty Receiving Status Workhouse Workhouses
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Lancashire
> Related Images
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the Union Workhouse on Leigh Road in Leigh, Lancashire, as it appeared in the early 1900s. Opened in 1851, this institution was established under the Poor Law Amendment Act of 1834, a piece of legislation aimed at addressing poverty and dependency through a system of work and relief. The workhouse, with its Dickensian connotations, was a last resort for the destitute, offering a grim alternative to the streets. The image focuses on the recently added workhouse offices and receiving home, which sit proudly at the entrance of the workhouse complex. The offices served as the administrative hub for the workhouse, where the workhouse master and overseers managed the daily operations and distributed relief to the paupers. The receiving home was where new arrivals were assessed and housed before being assigned to various workhouse departments. The design of the building is both functional and imposing, with its green-painted offices, red-brick walls, and tall chimneys reflecting the status of the institution as a place of last resort for those in need. The grassy area in front of the building offers a rare touch of nature amidst the industrial surroundings. The Union Workhouse in Leigh, later becoming Atherleigh Hospital in the 20th century, stands as a poignant reminder of a bygone era in which the legal and social structures of the time sought to manage poverty through a system of work and relief. This photograph offers a glimpse into the history of social welfare and the architecture of the 19th century, providing a valuable insight into the past.
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.
