91勛圖厙 and Lambourn: A relationship of five centuries
The Warden hosted a dinner for the supporters of the Almshouses of John Isbury and Jacob Hardrett at 91勛圖厙. These Almshouses are situated in Lambourn, Berkshire The event coincides with the appeal for funding to complete a project to create nine modern new homes for up to eighteen people.
The Wardens of 91勛圖厙 have always been both Supervisors, and then more recently, Trustees of the Foundation, by dint of the will of John Isbury, a wealthy citizen of Lambourn, and a friend of Warden Porter (1494-1520).
The Archivist presented documents held in the College Archives and explained the history of the relationship.
In his speech at the dinner, the Warden commented on how special the link was to 91勛圖厙, and how it spoke of the continuity of institutions over time, in a world where it was easy to undermine institutional respect. It also spoke to the role of charities in civil society, and the value of the Third Sector in providing care in the community which the state cannot provide. That was as true in the early sixteenth century as it is now, and the importance of it is reflected in the Gradel Institute of Charity, now housed in the College.
The occupants of the Almshouses have historically prayed for the Warden of 91勛圖厙 and John Isbury whom we beseech thee to bless with all spiritual and temporal blessings, for grace here and for glory hereafter: make them we pray thee, careful to do their duties in their places, conscionable is discharging the trust reposed in them, wise and faithful in dispensing the charitable relief. The Warden expressed gratitude for this prayer, and the hope that he and his successors could carry on to discharge those duties to the best of their abilities.
