Sackville College

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Sackville College is an almshouse located in East Grinstead, West Sussex, England. It was founded in 1609 by Robert Sackville, 2nd Earl of Dorset and has been providing housing for the elderly and needy ever since. The college is a notable example of Jacobean architecture and is a Grade I listed building.

History

Sackville College was established by Robert Sackville, 2nd Earl of Dorset in 1609. The purpose of the college was to provide accommodation for the poor and elderly of the parish. The foundation charter was granted by King James I.

Architecture

The building is constructed from local sandstone and features a traditional courtyard layout. The main entrance leads into a quadrangle surrounded by residential quarters. The architecture is characteristic of the Jacobean era, with features such as mullioned windows, gables, and chimney stacks.

Notable Residents

One of the most famous residents of Sackville College was the hymn writer John Mason Neale, who served as the warden from 1846 until his death in 1866. Neale is best known for his contributions to hymnody and for translating many ancient and medieval hymns into English.

Current Use

Today, Sackville College continues to function as an almshouse, providing housing for elderly residents. It is also open to the public for guided tours, allowing visitors to explore its historic architecture and learn about its history.

See Also

• Almshouse
• Jacobean architecture
• Grade I listed buildings in West Sussex
• John Mason Neale