3-003-839 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Home for fifty boys recently built on the Philanthropic Society's farm, Redhill, at the expense of Mr. Samuel Gurney, M.P., 1861. 'This institution is quietly and successfully carrying on its operations at Redhill, Surrey. The Philanthropic Society was established so far back as the year 1788. In 1849, under the guidance of the Rev. Sydney Turner (the present Inspector of Reformatories), the committee founded the farm schools, consisting of a very complete establishment. Year by year its influence has been extended and its usefulness acknowledged, no efforts being spared by the committee to promote its efficiency and good working. Since the year 1849, 1484 boys have been received, of whom more than 600 have emigrated. A large majority of those who have left its walls are now filling situations with credit to themselves and the good report of their employers. There are now 260 inmates, who are lodged in six separate houses, or "homes," the last erected being named Gurney's, after its generous founder...The building was erected from the designs of Mr. Richard Bell, and the whole cost amounted to £1400'. From "Illustrated London News", 1861.