The Greenwich Pensioner

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A pint at the Greenwich Pensioner anyone? This isn’t just any pub. It’s a piece of London history. The Greenwich Pensioner a name echoing a vibrant past. It’s named after the Royal Hospital for Seamen in Greenwich. Think of it as the naval version of the Chelsea Pensioners home. A “poshest pensioners home that ever was”. These were the men the Royal Navy cared for. They lived there from 1705 to 1869. They were known as “Greenwich geese” by the locals. Quite a nickname don’t you think? These weren’t your typical quiet retirees. They were a rowdy bunch. Records show frequent fights shocking to the public morals of the time. The rules were strict. Break them and you’d be forced to wear a yellow coat a “canary”. You’d also face extra chores. Imagine the shame. The uniforms changed over time. From dark grey to blue to brown. Some pensioners even left and returned after a waiting period. Others returned to service after injury. It is quite amazing that even with a wooden leg or eye patch some seamen returned to their posts in the Royal Navy. The families of the pensioners couldn’t live with them. The hospital was more like a workhouse. In 1869 the Royal Hospital closed. The Navy began paying pensions directly. The Greenwich Pensioner pub though carries on the legacy. It stands as a reminder of these bold seamen and their unique story. A toast to the Greenwich Pensioner a pub steeped in history and legend. Cheers

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