Winsford in WinterThe grade II* listed Winsford Cottage Hospital is a fine example of Arts & Craft Architecture designed by the influential Arts & Craft designer Charles Francis Annesley Voysey (1857 – 1941). The Winsford Cottage Hospital was commissioned in 1900 by Maria (Molly) Webb-Medley in memory of her husband George for the community of Halwill and its surrounding 14 parishes.
C.F.A Voysey was a leading British architect of the Arts & Craft Movement born in Hessle, Yorkshire 1857. In 1882 Voysey set up his own practice in Westminster where in the early years he concentrated on his decorative forms, most notably textiles, wallpaper and carpets. In 1888 Voysey received his first architectural commission; a house for M. H. Lakin, Itchington this was the first of many notable country houses. His designs were published widely, exhibited at the Arts & Crafts Exhibition Society and were highly influential.
The Winsford Trust came into being in 1999 when the local community, led by the Winsford Hospital League of Friends, formed a committee in partnership with Age Concern Torridge, to secure the ownership and development of the building for the benefit of the community.
I really like the design and quality feel of the new site. My only criticism would be that there seems to be a lack of illustrations.
I know most of the locals know what the former Winsford Cottage Hospital looks like but for other visitors from further afield it needs photographs, plans and drawings to bring the place alive. There are some stunning design details to be seen inside and outside the building — please let’s see them!
Best wishes,
John Russell