PEABODY, George (1795-1869). American merchant & philanthropist.
Important Autograph Letter Signed to the architect H.A. Darbishire, 2 pages 8vo (ragged at the edges, browned), Brighton, 19 June 1863. Reporting his satisfaction with the lithograph print of the first 'poor man's palace' being built.

'... I can only hope that the people will be equally pleased with the building when finished and that the hearts of thousands of the London poor who may from time to time find a residence there, may be made glad by the comforts it will afford. ...'

Peabody spent the latter part of his life in London where he established the Peabody Donation Fund (currently the Peabody Trust). Founded in 1862 the Fund bore the remit of providing good quality housing for 'the deserving poor' of London. The first dwellings were designed by Darbishire and opened in 1864.

£125 [No: 24470]