Celebrating 250 years of our Almshouses
2024 marks 250 years since the first recorded Walton Charity almshouse.
The charity itself has been in existence for over 800 years, making it older than the Magna Carta!
Mayfield circa 1870
The Origin of Mayfield
Our original almshouse was built in 1774 on what is now the site of Mayfield.
It was recorded in 1870 that “as long as memory and tradition extend, the Mayfield site had been used as a property devoted to charitable uses”.
In 1870 this property was occupied by 14 residents - one widower, two married couples, six widows, and three unmarried women.
They were elected by the Vicar and could live rent-free for life.
Mayfield circa 1902
Evolution
Between 1902 and 1912, the old buildings were replaced by four new blocks of two or three cottages, providing nine dwellings and a caretaker’s lodge.
In 1966, the Edwardian cottages were replaced by the first wing of the current Mayfield building, containing 28 flats, a warden’s residence, communal rooms. gardens, and offices for the Charity.
Mayfield was eventually extended in 1995 to provide 47 flats, and further refurbished in 2018 to provide 53 flats.
Mayfield circa 1995
“Since I was 18, I’ve lived at 40 different addresses, but I am pleased to say that I now feel at home”
Fenner House - Mayfield’s modern counterpart
Fenner House, named after one of the Charity’s principal benefactors, was built in 1983 on allotment land.
“It was the best thing that had happened to me for a long, long time. I feel safe here. I feel secure.”
It now provides 52 self-contained flats, arranged around a communal garden.
Our almshouses aim to encourage companionship, a sense of security, and a feeling of community for local people.
One of our guiding principles as a Charity is that the provision and maintenance of our almshouses for the benefit of those in need is upheld.
We are proud to offer these properties to Elmbridge residents over the age of 55 who can live independently. You can find out more about our independent living schemes here.
A detailed account of the history of Walton Charity was carefully compiled by David Nash in his book “I Give and Bequeath”. A copy can be requested from admin@waltoncharity.org.uk.
Article by Amy Dixon, Walton Charity’s Communications and Events Officer