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Wigan Union workhouse, Lancashire
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Wigan Union workhouse, Lancashire
General view of Wigan Union workhouse. Tram line runs past front. Date: circa 1906
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Media ID 14242074
© Mary Evans / Peter Higginbotham Collection
Homes Past Runs Wigan Workhouse Youth Childrens Tram
EDITORS COMMENTS
1. Title: A Glimpse into the Past: Wigan Union Workhouse, Lancashire (circa 1906) This evocative photograph captures the general view of Wigan Union Workhouse, located in Lancashire, England, circa 1906. The image presents a somber yet intriguing glimpse into the history of social welfare and care for the destitute and vulnerable in Victorian-era Britain. The workhouse, a prominent feature of the social landscape during this time, was a place of last resort for those who could not support themselves. Designed to discourage idleness and encourage self-sufficiency, the workhouse system was a harsh and often inhumane alternative to the streets or the workhouse infirmary. In this photograph, the workhouse's imposing facade, with its high walls and barred windows, stands as a reminder of the strict control and discipline that governed the lives of its inhabitants. The tram line running past the front entrance adds a sense of connection to the outside world, hinting at the possibility of escape or respite. The photograph also reveals a glimpse of the children's home attached to the workhouse. The young boys and girls, dressed in their uniforms, can be seen playing in the yard, their expressions a mix of curiosity, mischief, and perhaps, longing. The presence of the children underscores the importance of the workhouse as a provider of care and shelter for the most vulnerable members of society. As we gaze upon this historical image, we are reminded of the complex and often controversial history of social welfare and care in Britain. The Wigan Union Workhouse, with its blend of austerity and compassion, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of those who sought to provide for the less fortunate, even in the most challenging of circumstances.
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