15. Watford - England - Essex Alms Houses - 1950s

These are the Essex Alms Houses taken in the 1950s. They are still standing today, making them the oldest inhabited buildings in the town.

They were built by Francis Russel, Earl of Bedford in 1580 so that "eight poor women... might inhabit and be maintained" in them.

In 1931 they were almost demolished due to serious disrepair, but were saved by Alderman W. Bickerton (Mayor 1931-32).

They are located at position 1 in green on the map, behind St. Mary's Church.