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Royal Support for Hull's Orphaned Seafarers' Children
25 Oct
Summary
- The Sailors' Children's Society has supported orphans for over 200 years.
- Royal family members were key patrons and visitors to the charity.
- The society aimed to replace parental care lost due to maritime dangers.
The economy of Hull, historically built upon maritime trade, often came at a profound cost to its seafarers, leaving many children orphaned. Since its founding in 1821, the Sailors' Children's Society has dedicated itself to caring for these vulnerable young people.
Influential figures, including members of the Royal Family, have long supported the charity. Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, a patron from 1935, maintained a lifelong connection, sending chocolates for each child annually. Princess Margaret and Princess Diana also visited the society's homes, engaging warmly with the children.
The society's homes, established in 1893 on Cottingham Road, formed a model village with a school and hospital. Children from various coastal towns, including Grimsby and Middlesbrough, were cared for, with the society's motto reflecting its mission to be a parental substitute.
Two centuries later, the society continues its work, with the former school still in use, though the original homes now serve as student accommodation. The enduring support from the people of Hull and East Yorkshire has been instrumental in the society's survival through challenging times, including two world wars.
