Foundling Museum Tickets

Description

The Foundling Museum in Brunswick Square London is dedicated to sharing the 275-year-long history of the iconic Foundling Hospital.

‘Foundling’ is a historic term applied to children – typically babies – who have been abandoned by parents and then discovered and cared for by others, and the hospital was established by Thomas Coram in 1739 to cater to this specific demographic. Appalled by the conditions children faced in London with the rise of pollution and diseases, he created a space in which England’s most vulnerable could be safe, cared for, and educated. During its operations, the hospital looked after 25,000 children.

The Foundling Museum was constructed in the 1930s in the same location and incorporates many original architectural features from the 18th-century hospital building. There you can discover the story of the Foundling Hospital and learn about the children who lived there. You can also explore its vibrant community of artists, musicians, and supporters through the museum’s galleries, and historic rooms.

As you wander through, you can uncover paintings by William Hogarth, and see George Frideric Handel’s Will and the manuscript score of his Messiah in the Handel Gallery. Handel was a famous composer and wrote the impressive Messiah, which is still loved today. Handel’s Will is a unique item that gives a rare glimpse into his personal and professional life – see those named in the will, including charities such as the Foundling Hospital.

You can also uncover the token mothers left with their babies upon leaving them in the hospital’s care. This was done to identify the child in the hopes of one day being reunited. It’s a touching display and a showcase of the many emotions associated with the difficult decisions these people once made.