Jubilee Cottages, Wicken (RGL2026)

Jubilee Cottages (almshouses, hospital), Wicken

History of Jubilee Cottages

Lady Mary Bassingbourn founded a hospital in 1321 to house seven poor men of the village. Their daily allowance was a farthing loaf, one herring and one pennyworth of ale, as well as annually, clothes, shoes and peat turves. In the 19th century it was used for elderly women.

In 1897 the buildings were demolished to build the Jubilee almshouses. (Wicken, Anthony Day, 1990)

The cottages were designed for 4 single people and a couple at either end. They were improved in 1931, but later replaced by three modern units.