Celebrating a century at Cahn Memorial Homes

Residents at Cahn Memorial Homes in Hucknall have come together to celebrate 100 years of their unique homes.

The collection of six, Grade II listed bungalows date back to 1925. Built by local philanthropist Sir Julien Cahn, 1st Baronet of Stanford in honour of his parents, they were built as an early form of affordable, social housing. 

The homes are an early example of the many charitable works of Cahn throughout his life, including the purchase of Newstead Abbey, which he donated to Nottingham City Council in 1931.

Cahn Memorial Homes, designed by Sir Reginald Blomfield, were originally designed to offer affordable accommodation to local retired coal miners, but as times have changed, they now house people over 50 who have worked within industry. 

Nottingham Community Almshouse Charity (NCAC), part of Nottingham Community Housing Association (NCHA) took on the trusteeship of the homes in 2019 and are now responsible for the buildings’ ongoing upkeep.

Over a lunch of sandwiches and cakes, residents were able to meet with representatives from NCHA, Michelle Welsh MP’s office and Counsellors from Ashfield District Council.

Holly Dagnall, Director of Homes and Wellbeing for NCHA comments: “Almhouses are typically historic homes, and they’re often beautifully designed by renowned architects of the time, which is the case here. It’s just a lovely place.”

Resident Sheila has lived at Cahn Memorial Homes for over twenty years: “It’s the peace and quiet I love here,” she comments. “I’ve been so happy here for all these years, it’s been lovely to celebrate today and learn more about our home.” Neighbour Elaine adds: “It’s like your own little world, away from the hustle and bustle.”

To celebrate the centenary milestone, the building’s original clock in the tower had its chime repaired, and a bird table was donated for the communal garden. In a nod to the building’s namesake, each resident was gifted a copy of ’The Eccentric Entrepreneur’ a biography of Sir Julien Cahn, signed by the book’s author and granddaughter to Cahn, Miranda Rijks. 

Cllr Lee Water, Ashfield District Council: “I can often hear the bell on the clock tower. There’s a lot of character to these homes. I’m really pleased we have this lovely asset in Hucknall.”