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Union workhouse at Nantwich, Cheshire
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Union workhouse at Nantwich, Cheshire
A view of the Union workhouse at Nantwich. The grounds of the institution are being used for the cultivation of vegetables. Date: Date unknown
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14147542
© Mary Evans/Peter Higginbotham Collection
Cultivation Grounds Institution Vegetables Workhouse Nantwich
EDITORS COMMENTS
1. Title: A Productive Oasis in the Heart of the Union Workhouse: The Horticultural Pursuits at Nantwich, Cheshire The hauntingly serene image before us transports us back in time to the Union Workhouse at Nantwich, Cheshire, where the grounds of this once formidable institution have been repurposed for the cultivation of vegetables. The exact date of this photograph remains elusive, but it offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of workhouses and their evolving role in the social fabric of Victorian England. During the 19th century, the workhouse system was a cornerstone of the English Poor Laws, designed to provide relief for the destitute while also instilling a strong work ethic. The workhouses were notoriously harsh places, with inmates required to perform laborious tasks as part of their daily routine. However, this image reveals a different side to the Union Workhouse at Nantwich, where the grounds have been transformed into a productive oasis. The meticulously tended vegetable patches and gardens are a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of those who lived and worked within the workhouse walls. The cultivation of these crops not only provided sustenance for the inmates but also served as a means of self-sufficiency and even potential income through the sale of surplus produce. This shift towards horticulture not only improved the living conditions for the inmates but also fostered a sense of community and pride in their work. As we gaze upon this scene, we are reminded of the complex history of the workhouse system and the resilience of those who lived within its walls. The Union Workhouse at Nantwich stands as a symbol of the adaptability and determination of the human spirit, even in the most challenging of circumstances.
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