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Etwall Almshouses, founded in 1557 in accordance with the will of Sir John Port, and rebuilt in 1681. The splendid wrought-iron gates by Robert Bakewell are unfortunately out of shot!

ETWALL ALMSHOUSES, also known as Etwall Hospital and earlier as the Sir John Port Hospital Almshouses, is one of the oldest and most historically interesting buildings in the Derbyshire village of Etwall.

The almshouses were founded in 1557 in accordance with the will of Sir John Port, who was also the founder of Repton School. They were built after he died suddenly in June 1557 and are situated at the rear of the churchyard of St. Helen's Church, behind their splendidly ornate gates designed by Robert Bakewell. Built to provide shelter and 'alms' to the elderly of the village - originally confined to men only - the quaint accommodation has served generation upon generation of senior residents.

Up until the 1960s the Almsmen wore a costume of mortar-board style hats and blue cloaks with a silver clasp, which they wore on special occasions. It is said to have been a tradition that Almsmen were buried in their outfit.

Rare ARCHIVE FILM FOOTAGE in colour and with sound survives from 1958. It shows the almshouses and their residents, a number of whom are named during the film, which was made by Pathe News.

The film may be viewed free of charge by visiting the website www.itnsource.com. On the upper right select the 'British Pathe' archive only, and then conduct a search without quote marks - Etwall old folks home. The film listing will come up. Click on the link and then click the 'to view' icon. Although it lasts little more than 2 minutes it is well worth viewing - indeed those with family links to Etwall may even see someone they recognise from almost 50 years ago!

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County:  Derbyshire

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