J. King

In 1776, Mr J. King provided that £1 per year should be paid by the owners of a property, and that this amount should be expended on an annual distribution of bread to the poor. It became the practice for this to be held over for ten years, and then ten pounds’ worth of bread distributed.

In 1881, the owner of the property ceased payment, contending the gift was void under the statutes of mortmain (meaning dead hand). By these statutes, liability cannot continue after the death of its originator, it not being a part of his effects or estate or subject of a will or bequest. Attempts were made to reinstate the charity, but it was lost.

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• David (Webmaster) –
  12 Jan 2009This charity is now part of THE FRANCES GEERING ALMSHOUSE CHARITY – Charity Number 204399 -. See the Charity Commission’s web site for more information. http://www.charity-commission.gov.uk/