“Received, A Blank Child” was the title of an article in Household Words written by Charles Dickens in March 1853. It refers to the printed form of petition obtained from the porters’ lodge by mothers who wished their children to be admitted to the Foundling Hospital in London.
We will discover how Thomas Coram, a sea captain, established the Foundling Hospital supported by William Hogarth and George Handel. Together they transformed the Hospital into the country’s first public art gallery and one of London’s most fashionable venues. Hogarth encouraged leading artists to donate their work and Handel held benefit concerts of the Messiah in the hospital’s chapel. It was the place to be seen and to be seen helping.
Josette is the Chair of the Lighthorne History Society.