Where it all began
Croydon Almshouses is Croydon’s oldest charity.
We have a rich history dating back to 1447 when Elis David (also referred to as Elias Davy), a Citizen and Mercer of London, bought land in central Croydon and founded the first almshouses for those in need.
Originally, Elis David built four almshouses with orchards and gardens. He endowed the almshouses with land and property and gave instructions to increase the holdings over the years.
The location of the original almshouses is now known as Ramsey Court and is located in Church Street by Croydon Minster, and is owned by Croydon Council. It is thought that parts of the original north wing may still remain, although with Victorian exterior.
The Ordinances of Elis David’s Almshouses, which are long and detailed, were signed on 27th April 1447. The almshouses were founded in perpetuity and intended to be a community of prayer and care. The Vicar and Churchwardens were to be trustees, and the Master and Wardens of the Mercers’ Company Overseers.
After Elis David’s death in 1455 he was buried in Croydon Parish Church, now Croydon Minster. A memorial service is held annually on his death anniversary, known as Mynde Day, on the first Friday of December.
In 1875, Ramsey Court was enlarged to accommodate 12 people, with an almost identical wing added in 1887. It was much loved by Croydonians, who, until the mid-nineteenth century called it “The Great Almshouse.”
In the mid-19th century the almshouses were extended, and in 1974, following a land exchange with Croydon Council, the current Elis David Almshouses was built on Duppas Hill Terrace. The building was officially opened in 1975 by HRH Princess Alexandra.
Currently there are 57 individual almshouses within the purpose-built block, many of which are large enough for couples.
Through the Years
Over the centuries, a number of charities have been absorbed into Croydon Almshouses. They reflect the generosity of benefactors from many different walks of life throughout our history. They are listed below:
The Overton Trust Fund
The Joan Price Charity
The John Blake Charity
The Stockenden Estate Charity of Henry Smith
The Reverend East Apthorp DD Charity
Wigsell’s Charity
The Daniel Thompson Brooke Charity
The Inkpen Eleemosenary Trust
The Budgen Trust Fund
The Almshouse of Charity Janet Rutherford Adams
The Croydon Charities of Henry Smith
The Archbishop Gryndall and Rowland Kilner
The Thomas Field Charity
The Deptford Estate Charity of Henry Smith
The John Henry Smith Charity
The Mary Allan Charity
The Hermitage Estate Charity
The Almshouse Charity of Elis David
The Little Almshouse
The Lady Anne Allot Charity
The John William Ebbutt Charity
The Thomas Fewson Eagles Charity
The Joseph Williams Charity
The John Piggott Charity
The Charity of Mary Spering
Continuing the Legacy
Today Croydon Minster and the Mercers’ Company each nominate a Trustee to serve on Croydon Almshouses’ Board, honouring the legacy of Elis David.
Ramsey Court is Grade II listed, preserving its historical significance.
Explore our Legacy
To learn more about the history of Elis David Almshouses, a book written by late historian and resident of Elis David Almshouses, Sue Turnbull, is available to buy. Copies can be purchased on Amazon, or alternatively can be requested from our team at Croydon Almshouses.
We also have a dedicated History Room at Elis David Almshouses which the public can visit to learn more.
Get in Touch
If you would like to explore our detailed historical exhibits, please do get in touch.