Bridport, Almshouses 1903
Photo ref: 50484
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Photo ref: 50484
Photo of Bridport, Almshouses 1903

More about this scene

Magdalene Almshouses (left), were rebuilt in 1877 on the site of a lazar-house or leper hospital, apparently founded by a member of the de Leyes or Legh family, in the early 13th century. The dedication was to St Mary Magdalene. At the time of the photograph it was for "eight deserving women" but this was reduced to four to ease overcrowding. Modernisation took place in 1955, financed by the Colfox Trust, when the number of units was increased to six. Beyond is Magdalen House (left of centre) with Old Magdalen opposite (right of centre).

A Selection of Memories from Bridport

For many years now, we've been inviting visitors to our website to add their own memories to share their experiences of life as it was, prompted by the photographs in our archive. Here are some from Bridport

Sparked a Memory for you?

If this has sparked a memory, why not share it here?

I was sent to the convent after my Father died in 1953. My Uncle had been educated there many years previously. I can confirm the recollections that have been put here of the vicious way in which some of the Nuns treated us. I suffered from the effects of whooping cough and regularly put into a separate room to recuperate. I vividly remember one of the Nuns telling me that I was wicked because I had been ...see more
I was a pupil at this convent between 1961 and 67 and i remmeber getting beaten by sister ann on several occassions i think this must off been because my parents wher off cypriot origin and i had a greek surname if anyone whent to this convent during those years it would be nice to hear from you
I was a boarder at the convent. I started in the Autumn term before my 5th birthday and remember being put to bed in a large dormitory on the top floor, full of other children with a cubicle for a nun to sleep in. I was scared and crying when the nun decided that smacking me would stop me from crying. Strange that being smacked or caned or being hit with a rod or a ruler feature so strongly in ...see more
I joined the convent in 1967 and was the only black later joined by Leslie Philips from the Carribean. I am from Uganda and my dad was studying architecture at the AA. First day at school was horrific. I was punched and called names like any newcomer. By the second term I settled in my best buddies were Martin Pike whose family ran a 600 acre farm. Nicholas Nickleby was a good friend ...see more