My Ancestor the Workhouse Master a Talk by Louise Wade

Having recently retired from nursing after 36 years with the NHS, Louise is particularly interested in the history of healthcare of which many workhouses eventually became part.  Today’s talk is based on her ancestors who were Master and Matron of a Victorian workhouse and attempts to answer many questions; How did workhouses come about?  Who built them and why?  How did two ordinary people get those jobs?  What was life like inside for those who lived and worked there?  Why was my Granny terrified of the place?  Were workhouses as severe as depicted by Dickens or the foundation of the modern NHS?

Sounds interesting, particularly if you’ve found out that one of yours was an inmate!

Date: Tuesday January 12th 2027

Time: 2.00pm

Location: Ashday Lea Masonic Hall, Rawtenstall BB4 6QX

Accessibility: Disabled Access

Directions: Follow this link

Suggested Donation: £5 members £6 non-members

Refreshments: Tea, coffee and biscuits included