Known locally as ‘Babies Castle’ the home was specifically for orphaned babies and children, under the age of 5, who came from the East End of London. It was the 30th home which Dr Barnardo opened in the late 19th century due to his increased concern about the number of babies an infants he had to find homes for.
A long standing friend of his and Hawkhurst resident, Theodore Moillet, kindly offered Barnardo some cottages and land on Cranbrook Hill where the original home was set up for around 30 babies. As demand grew funds were raised to erect a new purpose built home for up to 120 babies and infants. This was officially opened in 1896 by HRH Princess Mary Adelaide, Duchess of Teck.
By 1964 the home became a nursery, with under 50 places available but closed in 1965. It was then used as an elderly care home and in 2005 the site was sold for redevelopment. Laying derelict for several years the building was finally demolished in 2015 and a new residential care home, Hawkhurst House, now stands on the site.
Heritage plaques
When Hawkhurst residents were asked how they would like to celebrate their local heritage and culture, a plaque dedicated to Babies Castle was a unanimous choice.
The plaque was unveiled by a Hawkhurst House resident and former Babies Castle staff member. Care home manager Christ Walton-Turner said “Many people from the local community have memories and stories connected to Babies Castle, so it seems appropriate we have a plaque to commemorate it”
Three more new plaques have been made which celebrate Lillesden House, Fanny Hopkins of Highgate House, and John Hunt a former Councillor and local supporter. These plaques have been installed together with interpretation panels at The Moor and Highgate featuring an updated illustrated map.
You can read more about the blue plaque project and walking trail in Hawkhurst here where an online version is availble to download.
