Call Number:

Ms. Codex 1926

Repository:

University of Pennsylvania: Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts

Extent:

1 volume

Language:

English

Preferred Citation:

Cottrell's Charity accounts, Yardley, 1858-1951, Ms. Codex 1926, Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts, University of Pennsylvania

Date:

1858-1951 (inclusive)

Creator:

John Cottrell's Charity

Form:

Manuscripts, English -- 20th century, Manuscripts, English -- 19th century, Account books, and Codices (bound manuscripts)

Abstract:

A ledger containing an account of receipts, disbursements, and yearly accountin of funds for John Cottrell's Charity spanning the years from 1858 to 1951. The charity supported housing for widows in the Parish of Yardley, Worcestershire.

John Cottrell deeded land in 1715 in Yardley Parish, Worcestershire, England and established almshouses for widows. Two cottages were built on the land and each was occupied by a widow.

This volume is a ledger containing an account of receipts and disbursements for John Cottrell's Charity. The charity supported two cottages housing two widows in the Parish of Yardley, Worcestershire. A yearly accounting of the funds spans the years from 1858 to 1951. The accounts were reconciled at the end of March to the mid-April each year. A funds clerk was named each year, the accounts were signed by auditors, and passed by the board of trustees. In the first year, 1858, expenditures were for the erection of the cottages including payments for the builder and the surveyor. Incoming funds for the almshouses were noted. From 1858 until 1894 some funding was supplied by a trust of the Rev. John Ellis and interest earned at Lloyd's. In 1895 funds were provided by renters who occupied other portions of the properties. The women who lived in the almshouses were named each year until 1911. Expenditures for the cottages included gardening, insurance, maintenance, and repairs. A letter dated March 30, 1896 regarding the deed in Yardley is pasted on the inside back cover. The title appears on stamped-leather label on front cover.