Opened in 1938, Wanstead Hospital stands as a testament to a rich and layered past. Before it served the community’s healthcare needs, this building held a different purpose entirely. It began its life in 1861 as the Merchant Seamen’s Orphan Asylum, opened by Prince Albert himself. Imagine the halls filled with the laughter and chatter of children, finding solace and kinship within these walls. A chapel, added in 1863, offered a space for reflection and prayer, its quiet sanctity a stark contrast to the bustling energy of the asylum. In 1921, the orphans relocated to Bearwood House in Wokingham. The building transitioned into a convent, marking another shift in its role. The transformation into Wanstead Hospital in 1938 brought a new era of service. It became part of the National Health Service in 1948, offering vital medical care to the community until its closure in 1986. Interestingly, before its closure, Wanstead Hospital even graced the small screen. Its exterior was featured in the opening credits of the popular comedy series “Doctor in the House” starting in 1969. Today, Wanstead Hospital stands as a blend of old and new. Converted into apartments, the main building has found a new life. Yet, echoes of its past remain. The former chapel, once a place of solace for orphans and nuns, now serves as the Sukkat Shalom Reform Synagogue. It’s a beautiful reminder of the many lives this building has touched and the enduring spirit of community it represents.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to