The Workhouse, Southwell facts for kids
The Workhouse, also known as Greet House, is a special museum in Southwell, England. It is run by the National Trust and first opened its doors to visitors in 2002.
This building was constructed in 1824. It was a very important example of a 19th-century workhouse. In fact, a special group studying laws for the poor said it was the best workhouse around. This happened before the new laws of 1834, which led to many more workhouses being built across the country.
The Workhouse was designed by William Adams Nicholson, an architect from Southwell. He worked with Revd. John T. Becher, who had new ideas about how workhouses should be run. The National Trust says this is the best-preserved workhouse in England.
The building was used for a long time, even into the early 1990s. Towards the end, it provided temporary homes for mothers and children. The National Trust bought it because they wanted to protect important historic buildings. They also wanted to show more about everyday history, not just grand houses. This building is a Grade II* listed building, which means it's very important and protected.
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The Workhouse Museum
The Workhouse in Southwell is now a museum. It helps people understand what life was like for poor people in the past. It shows how society tried to help those who had nowhere else to go.
What Was a Workhouse?
A workhouse was a place where poor people could live and work. It was for those who had no home, no job, or no family to support them. In return for a place to stay, food, and clothes, people had to work. The idea was to make sure people could support themselves.
Life in a workhouse was very strict. People had to follow many rules. Families were often separated, with men, women, and children living in different parts of the building. The work was often hard and boring. For example, people might break stones or pull apart old ropes (called oakum) to reuse the fibers.
History of the Building
The Southwell Workhouse was built in 1824. It was designed to be a model for other workhouses. Its design was very practical and helped manage many people. The architect, William Adams Nicholson, made sure the building was efficient.
The Revd. John T. Becher was a key person in its early days. He believed that workhouses should help people become self-sufficient. He introduced tasks like breaking stones. This was meant to teach discipline and provide useful work.
The building continued to be used for different purposes over the years. It was a place of shelter for many people. In the 20th century, it became a place for mothers and children needing temporary housing. This shows how the building adapted to changing needs.
Bringing the Past to Life
The National Trust started restoring the Workhouse in 2000. They wanted to make it look like it did in the 19th century. Many rooms have been carefully redecorated. Buildings and walls that were taken down in the 20th century have been rebuilt. Even the old outdoor toilets (privies) have been put back.
In March 2012, the laundry drying room was opened. This was a special event where staff and volunteers were thanked for their hard work.
In 2013, the Workhouse received the Sandford Award for Heritage Education. This award recognized it as a great place for local schoolchildren to learn about history. It helps young people understand a very important part of England's past.
In 2015, the property was even featured on a TV show called 24 Hours in the Past. This helped more people learn about its history.
See also
- Grade II* listed buildings in Nottinghamshire
- Listed buildings in Upton, Newark and Sherwood
