[an error occurred while processing this directive] St Deiniol's Home for Boys, Arthog, near Barmouth, Merionethshire, Wales
Ancestry UK

St Deiniol's Home for Boys, Arthog, near Barmouth, Merionethshire, Wales

In 1888, a house known as Bron-Meirion, at Arthog, near Barmouth, was purchased by Lady Elizabeth Legge as a home for the care of four young boys. Three years later, she offered the home on very generous terms to the a Waifs and Strays Society and it passed into the Society's hands on September 29th, 1891. It was formally re-opened as the Society's St Deiniol's (or St Deniol's) Home for Boys by the local vicar, the Rev. J.E. Davis, on October 22nd, 1891. Lady Legge continued in her existing role as the home's matron, helped by an assistant matron. The home accommodated up to 15 boys aged from 5 to 12 years.

St Deiniol's Home for Boys, Arthog, c.1892. © Peter Higginbotham

On May 13th, 1895, the home was certified by the Local Government Board to receive pauper boys placed there by the Boards of Guardians that operated the poor relief and workhouse system. It was believed that the fresh air and countryside would have a beneficial effect on poor children from urban slums who came to live at the home.

St Deiniol's Home for Boys, Arthog, c.1901. © Peter Higginbotham

In 1903, the home was closed, possibly with its small size and inconveniently remote location contributing to this decision.

The property is now a private residence.

Records

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Bibliography