Envision a haven built on altruism. That’s Morden College. Sir John Morden, a prosperous merchant, founded it in 1695. He envisioned a home for “poor Merchants.” These were men who lost their estates. They faced dangers at sea or other misfortunes in their endeavors.
Morden College stands in Blackheath, London. It has provided residential care for over 300 years. Some attribute the design to Sir Christopher Wren. However, Edward Strong, his master mason, largely carried it out. The original buildings housed 40 single or widowed men.
Let’s step back in time. Imagine these merchants finding solace within its walls. Picture a spacious brick structure with stone details. Envision the quadrangle surrounded by piazzas. Above the entrance, statues of Sir John Morden and his wife stand guard.
Inside the hall, portraits of the Mordens and Queen Anne once graced the walls. The chapel displayed the arms of Sir John and Lady Morden. It also showed records of donations after the founder’s death. Morden College was initially governed by trustees from the Turkey Company. Sir John Morden placed twelve Turkey merchants in the College during his lifetime.
After his death in 1708, his will endowed the College. The estates were worth about 1600 pounds per year. Lady Morden reduced the number of merchants to four during her life. She found her income insufficient to continue her husband’s bounty. She died in 1721. Then the whole estate fell to the College.
Pensioners had to be over 50 years old. They needed to be bachelors or widowers. They also needed to be members of the Church of England. Their pension was 40 shillings per month. The College had apartments for 30. Vacancies were filled once a year. Seven trustees of the Turkey Merchants Company governed the College. They elected the pensioners.
Donations from Turkey merchants helped Morden College survive. Lady Morden gave 100 pounds in 1721. Sir Charles Cooke gave 100 pounds in 1723. Richard Pyke gave 1000 pounds in 1774.
The East India Company took over as trustees from 1827 to 1884. William Astell was the first East India Company Trustee. John Lubbock chaired the Trustees from 1873 to 1889.
In the 20th century, the rules changed. Morden College began to accommodate women and married couples. New buildings were added. Today, Morden College is a Grade I listed building. It functions as a retirement home. The College also manages other homes in Blackheath and Beckenham.
The John Morden Centre, a day center at Morden College, won the Stirling Prize for architecture in 2023. This modern addition provides social and medical facilities. It brings residents together. It combats social isolation.
Morden College has evolved over the centuries. Yet, its core mission remains. It provides a home for those in need. It is a testament to Sir John Morden’s vision. It blends history and modernity. Morden College stands as a beacon of care.