Soho Square: House of Charity

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Sir Walter Besant, in The Fascination of London, published in 1903, continues his survey of Soho Square with this look at the House of Charity:

In the opposite or south-east corner of Soho square is the House of Charity.

This was formerly the residence of Alderman Beckford, twice Lord Mayor of London in George III's reign, who was credited with being the only man of his day who dared tell the King the truth to his face.

His son was the author of "Vathek."

The house is now a house of mercy, for the assistance of orphans, homeless girls, and all who, through no fault of their own, find themselves without a roof to shelter them or work to do.

The charity is Church of England, and under the direction of a Warden and Council.

The fine decorative wooden overmantels and doorways still remain, and the joints and edges of the panels are all carved, which gives a very handsome appearance to some of the rooms.

The council-room ceiling is a large oval with the figures of four cherubic boys in relief, carrying respectively flowers, a bird, fire, and water, to represent the four elements.

Next: Soho Square: Mrs Cornelys: Carlisle House