Our Story
With nearly 350 years of history, we're proud to tell our story. The various archive documents we hold not only tells of the support we have provided, but also the longstanding relationship we have with the city of Bristol and it's residents.
Our Beginnings
Born in the early 15th century, Thomas Steevens lived through many key moments in English history, including the English Civil War and subsequent Restoration. After training as an apprentice grocer in 1622, he became Alderman Thomas Steevens, Mayor of Bristol, in 1668. Upon his death in 1679, his will established the original Charitable Trust.
It was this will and associated posthumous donations, that allowed for the Trustees to purchase two areas for the purposes of establishing two Almhouses for 'poor men or women'. The areas were to be within the historic Parishes of St Phillip and St Jacob, and Temple, accommodating 12 residents each. The first Almshouse was built in Old Market in 1686, with the second build on Temple Street in 1716.
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Map showing extent of original Almshouses at Old Market ...
Know Your Place Bristol
1854 Ashmead
Through the Centuries
Over the centuries, the Charity has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of the communities it serves, aiming to improve the quality of life for the residents, enabling them to live independently and with dignity.
It's understood that the original Almshouses had such a strong demand, that following a surplus of funds in 1725, 4 additional rooms were added to a re-built Old Market Almshouse, which increased capacity to 28 across both sites.
In 1870, the Almshouse at Temple Street was demolished to make way for new city infrastructure. The Charity was compensated and within 3 years 12 new rooms were added to the Old Market site to accommodate those displaced.
Bristol Archives: 33041/BMC/12/1/a/9
Plan showing site at Old Market with additional rooms ...
Alderman Steevens Archive: 12146/7
Alderman Steevens Charity Deeds, c1880
The War Years
During the harrowing Bristol Blitz of the Second World War, the Almhouse at Old Market faced devastating destruction. The historic buildings, which had stood as a testament to compassion and community support since 1686, were hit several times during the relentless bombing raids.
Airstrikes during 1940 ravaged the almshouses, leaving them damaged beyond repair. This tragic loss was not just of the physical structures, but also of the heritage and the legacy of care they embodied. The bombings marked a poignant chapter in both Bristol's and the Charities history, underscoring the profound impacts of the war on both people and places.
Bristol Evening World - 2nd Feb 1959 - Contact us for Copyright Queries
Schematic showing bomb damage ...
Alderman Steevens Archive: 233
A. E. Powell & Meredith drawing c1940
Post War & Beyond
Following the bombing of the Almshouse at Old Market, and subsequent condemning of the site, planning permission was granted in 1956 to construct 12 self-contained modern flats on the same site, fronted by two shops, with wardens' accommodation and a communal room above. The building was also renamed Steevens House.
Over the preceding years, the charity collaborated with key third parties to not only ensure the smooth running of the Old Market site but also to acquire and run additional new affordable accommodation across Bristol. This post-war re-build and strategic expansion aimed to support as many people as possible, reflecting the charity's ongoing commitment to serving the community in the spirit of Thomas Steevens' original vision.
... the purchasing in fee simple of two several void grounds ... on each of which void grounds may be erected and built an Almshouse fit and convenient for twelve poore men or women...
Our Benefactor
Extract from the will of Alderman Thomas Steevens - Mayor of Bristol 1668
The Future of Steevens House
Alongside celebrating our rich Heritage, we’re also excited to look towards the future, and how we can continue to support as many people as possible gain access to affordable accomodation.
One of our original sites in Old Market is key to this, where we're currently looking into how the buildings can be improved upon to secure the future of the site in support of our charitable objectives.
We'll update this site as matters progress, so please keep checking back here for updates, and if you think you might be able to support us in this aim, then please do get in touch.
