Morden College

Tour of Morden College, Blackheath

Tuesday 24th September 2019

Despite the threatening clouds, a dozen or so members braved the elements to visit this long established retirement home on the edge of Blackheath Common. And they were well rewarded by a full tour and an opportunity to visit the mumiment room. And the only time it rained, we were inside having tea!

Our thanks to Elizabeth for her guidance and fascinating details about the College. This picture shows members with Elizabeth in the Garden of Remembrance which has been built on what was once the graveyard.

Of particular interest to BBLHS members was a letter written in March 1847 from the College chaplain to the Chairman of the Trustees, Sir John Lubbock. Among the requirements for admission to the College was sobriety and godliness and the Rev. William Marsh was writing to report that Edward Jones had both been brought back to the College in a state of intoxication and also had failed to attend divine service the next day. These events had brought much shame to other members of the College. What action Sir John took is not recorded.

Below are some pictures taken during our tour (click on an image to see it full size):

The attractive central courtyard.
Button
A sundial which was installed to help check the reliability of the nearby clock!
Button
The Courtyard and original gas lamp standard.
Button
The College chapel and cracked bell "lent" by a church for whom the College paid for a new one.
Button
The Chapel with the ten commandments hanging behind the alter.
Button
Edward Strong, the master mason responsible for building the College. Although an associate of Sir Christopher Wren, Wren did not have any direct involvement in the building.
Button
Portraits of SIr John and Lady Mordern placed either side of a picture of Queen Anne in the Dining Room.
Button
A map showing Morden College and the surrounding area together with some of the College's artefacts.
Button