Duxhurst Industrial Farm Colony

Model village, Duxhurst (House Beautiful, 1898)

Duxhurst Industrial Farm Colony was an early 20th-century rehabilitation center located in Duxhurst, Surrey, England. It was established to provide treatment and rehabilitation for women suffering from alcoholism and other forms of substance abuse. The colony was founded by Lady Henry Somerset, a prominent social reformer and advocate for temperance.

History

The Duxhurst Industrial Farm Colony was founded in 1895 by Lady Henry Somerset, who was deeply involved in the temperance movement. The colony was designed to offer a supportive environment where women could recover from the effects of alcoholism and learn new skills to help them reintegrate into society. The facility was situated on a large estate in Duxhurst, providing a peaceful and secluded setting for recovery.

Facilities and Treatment

The colony featured a variety of facilities aimed at promoting physical and mental well-being. These included residential cottages, a farm, and workshops where residents could engage in productive activities. The treatment approach at Duxhurst was holistic, focusing on both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. Residents participated in agricultural work, crafts, and other forms of labor as part of their rehabilitation.

Daily Life

Life at the Duxhurst Industrial Farm Colony was structured and disciplined. Residents followed a daily routine that included work, education, and recreational activities. The emphasis was on creating a sense of community and mutual support among the women. The colony also provided educational programs to help residents develop new skills and improve their prospects for employment after leaving the facility.

Legacy

The Duxhurst Industrial Farm Colony was one of the first institutions of its kind and served as a model for later rehabilitation centers. It highlighted the importance of a supportive environment and meaningful work in the recovery process. Although the colony eventually closed, its pioneering approach to addiction treatment had a lasting impact on the field.

See Also

• Lady Henry Somerset
• Temperance movement
• Rehabilitation
• Substance abuse