“Friend of All in Need” is written here. These words encapsulate the life of Mary Hughes. This blue plaque commemorates her and her extraordinary dedication to the poor. It stands on the side of the old Dewdrop Inn building.
Mary Hughes was born in 1860. She was the daughter of Thomas Hughes. He was the author of Tom Brown’s Schooldays. Mary, or “May” as she was also known, dedicated her life to social work in Whitechapel.
At 23, Mary became a housekeeper for her uncle. He was a vicar in Berkshire. In 1892, she joined the local Board of Guardians. This group oversaw the local workhouses. Mary sparked controversy. She suggested paupers should have tea twice a day instead of once. After months of debate, Mary won.
Following her uncle’s death in 1895, Mary moved to Whitechapel. She lived with her sister and brother-in-law. Soon, she joined the Stepney Board of Guardians. Tragedy struck in 1915. Her sister and brother-in-law drowned on the Titanic. Mary then moved in with friends. Their home later became Kingsley Hall in Bow.
In 1918, Mary joined the Quakers. She moved back to Whitechapel. She lived in the Blackwall Buildings. She continued her work with the poor. She visited the local infirmary and children’s home.
In 1926, Mary acquired an old pub. It was called the Earl Grey. It was located at 71 Vallance Road. She transformed it into a refuge. She renamed it the Dewdrop Inn. The name was a play on words. It meant “Do Drop In”.
At the Dewdrop Inn, Mary slept in a small room. It was near the front door. She slept on a padded bench. She often gave it up to homeless women. She would go without food to feed others. She often ended up in hospital with bronchitis. This was from sleeping on the cold floor.
Mary’s commitment was legendary. There was a debate about describing her as “sometimes verminous”. This was for a Quaker publication. Someone declared, “Her lice were her glory!” The description was accepted.
Mary was well-known in the area. She would wave her umbrella. She stepped into the road. She said, “The dear trams, they always stop for me.” One day, a tram did not stop. She was knocked down. She refused an ambulance. She insisted on writing a note. It said, “It was not the tram driver’s fault. It was my fault. Mary Hughes.” In the hospital, she was told she was recovering quickly. She shouted, “Three cheers for vegetarianism and teetotalism!”
Mary met Mahatma Gandhi in 1931. They clasped hands and laughed. They recognized each other’s dedication.
In early 1941, Mary’s health declined. She died in St. Peter’s Hospital on April 2nd.
This blue plaque is a tribute to Mary Hughes. It recognizes her selfless service. It reminds us of her unwavering dedication to those in need. She lived and worked here. She was a true friend to all.