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This house on Bootham was the childhood home of Quaker philanthropist Joseph Rowntree (1836-1925). That elegant cobweb arch above the door is typical of buildings of this period in York.
Early in the last century the Rowntree company was one of Britain's best known firms, both for its commercial success and in the field of industrial welfare. Joseph Rowntree cared about the quality of life of his employees. A female welfare worker was appointed in 1891, and in 1900 a welfare officer was appointed for boys and men. Sick and provident funds followed, then a doctor's surgery. A savings scheme was set up in 1905; a pension scheme in 1906; and a sick benefit scheme in 1910.
Rowntree's most lasting philanthropic act was to use half of his fortune to create three trusts. He stated that he did not want his children to lead the idle life often associated with large inheritances. The Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust was created to support adult education, social research, and the Society of Friends. The Joseph Rowntree Social Trust concentrated on social and political activities, and the Joseph Rowntree Village (now Housing) Trust was given responsibility for building affordable working-class housing. By the time Joseph Rowntree died in 1925 the model village of New Earswick contained almost 400 homes, as well as community and educational facilities. The Trusts and the village still flourish.
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A great man. It is a pity there weren't more industrialists like him around in the Victorian period.
ReplyDeleteExcellent- the original and the best JR ;-)
ReplyDeletean elegant house and an interesting history
ReplyDeleteROG, ABC Wednesday team
Very interesting!
ReplyDeleteJuice in Jars
Your comment always brings me joy, so leave me one when you can, thanks.
Rose, ABC Wednesday Team
The architecture is beautiful, I do love the webbing above the door.
ReplyDeleteAnn
It is plain that he was one of those forward-thinkers who made an impact on his society that is still ongoing. It is a lovely brick home...very symmetrical in design. I wonder what color the door was when he lived there.
ReplyDeleteIt's a pity that not more people are like him ! At that time workers were rather exploited then well treated !
ReplyDeleteGood man!
ReplyDeleteA man to be much admired, an attitude to emulate today.
ReplyDeleteHad not heard of this great fellow....thanks for the info♫♪
ReplyDeleteThe trusts are as you say very much alive today, I know someone who works for the social trust. Its a great pity that more of our wealthy people cannot emulate Joseph Rowntree.
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