The Alms Houses

The Alms Houses

The Alms Houses before 1938 when they were four tenements.

Standing behind the Cross Tree, and built in solid granite, are the famous Alms Houses. After the Parish Church this is arguably the most important building in Moretonhampstead. The date of 1637 on the outside is actually the date they were refurbished into eight single roomed dwellings. Prior to that time the original building was a church house, built as a hospital in 1451. All that separated the individual dwellings from each other were oak plank and muntin screens. During the 18th century they were used as a work house. In the mid-19th century it was still administered by church wardens.

 

 
The Alms Houses, Moretonhampstead, today

Early in the 19th century the building was converted into four one up, one down dwellings. The facade became damaged;  and they began to fall into disrepair.  In 1938 Mr Davie of Hayne bought them for £105. He presented them to the town and created a new trust for them. By 1940 they were converted into two tenements and in 1952 they were purchased by the National Trust. Externally they have not changed a great deal since 1637.

For more information go the History Society website.

 

History