Ancestry UK

Helston Home For Boys, Helston, Cornwall

The Helston Home For Boys (also known as the Truro Diocesan Home for Boys) was established by the Waifs and Strays Society in 1901 at The Old Vicarage, 32 Church Street, Helston.

Waifs and Strays Home for Boys, Helston, 1901. © Peter Higginbotham

The official opening took place on Wednesday 5th June, 1901, in the presence of a distinguished gathering which included the Bishop of Truro; the Mayor of Helston, Mr G. Beringer; the Mayor of Falmouth; and the Society's Founder, the Rev. Edward Rudolf. A collection amounting to £13 was taken. It was also announced that Mr Beringer had donated a bed which would bear his name. The home could accommodate 20 boys aged from 6 to 10 years, with the first four having already taken up residence. Miss Hunt was appointed as the permanent Matron.

Dedication Service at Waifs and Strays Home for Boys, Helston, 1901. © Peter Higginbotham

Boys at the home regularly took part in the town's traditional 'Furry Dance' procession, held each year on Flora Day (May 8th).

Boys outside the Helston Home on 'Furry Dance' day, 1907. © Peter Higginbotham

In October 1909, the home transferred to larger premises at Newquay.

Records

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Bibliography