The History of Benhome

In the city of Maitland we have a Belmore Road, the Belmore Bridge and the Belmore Hotel, which was adjacent to the original Belmore Bridge. The name Belmore probably honoured Somerset Richard Lowry Corry, Earl of Belmore, who was Governor of New South Wales from January 1868 to February 1872.

The town of Maitland has since its inception been subjected to many floods from the Hunter River and so has caused much distress in the district. In 1867, a group of compassionate women and men under the leadership of Charlotte Sarah and William Briggs formed a group called Maitland Benevolent Society to help those in need. By canvassing the district, the ladies of the committee raised one hundred and seven pounds, sixteen shillings and threepence halfpenny from small donations in their first year. The committee ladies also visited people who were in distress and who needed money, food, clothing and shelter.

In 1870, the Earl of Belmore gave fifty pounds to the Society, thus becoming a Life Member. As well, the Countess of Belmore became Patroness and remained so until 1872. In the years 1872 and 1874, the need for shelter was urgent, so four houses in Bulwer Street were rented and a Matron put in charge. With the support of the townsfolk, these cottages were furnished as listed in the Annual Report of 1874. The Dorcas Committee had amalgamated with the Benevolent Society and asylum was given to many women in childbirth.

It was during the years 1873 - 1878 Lady Robinson was Patroness and in 1881 Lord and Lady Jersey visited the Bulwer Cottages. It was soon evident that there was a genuine need to obtain bigger premises. Again, due to the generosity of the community, blocks of ground were given and purchased in Regent Street.

In 1884, plans were submitted for a building on the site and the plans of Mr. J.W.Pender were accepted. Mr. W.Taylor and Son were the builders and it is interesting to note that two of his relatives have recently resided at Benhome. The building was opened in 1886 and again the citizens of Maitland helped to furnish the two storey building. Only one half of the original design was built and this cost nine thousand pounds. Lord and Lady Carrington visited the new building in 1886 and were much impressed by the beautiful situation and the bountiful provisions for the occupants. It is interesting to note that at this time there were 11 babies at the home.

Through all the following years the committees consisted of women and men as trustees giving their services on a voluntary basis to run the home. While touring the district in 1918, Lord and Lady Davidson were guests at the home. By the 1970's the main building had separate dormitories for women and men and there were a few cottages in the grounds thus really stretching the resources of the Society.

In 1972, Lord and Lady Cutler paid a visit to the home. As the concept of benevolence was changing, the committee in 1971 decided to give the name "Benhome" to the hostel. Other organisations were taking care of many needs of the community so gradually Benhome became a home for the aged. In 1976 a Government Grant of two dollars for one dollar enabled the society to make an extension to house 28 people so the Benhome units came into being. These were designed by the Grandson of the Mr. Pender who designed the original building. These units were opened by the Deputy Prime Minister, Mr. Doug Anthony on 27th August, 1976.

In 1982, Miss Edith Eidler left a legacy to Benhome and with another Government Grant, the Eidler Wing of 16 units was built and officially opened in 1984 by Mr. Frank O'Keefe, Federal Member for Paterson. To show the continued interest and help of Maitland community, an amount of $25,000 was raised to help with the furnishings. In 1985 a fire restriction was placed on the original building so other accommodation had to be found.

The Misses Marguerite and Myrtle Curtis of Tocal left a legacy to Benhome. So with Government assistance the Curtis wing of 22 units was built. In 1988 this was opened by Mr. Ian Dunlop, long-time friend of the Misses Curtis. There was now room for 69 full-time residents and two respite rooms for short-term stays. For several years the upstairs of the original building remained vacant. In 1991 the committee decided it was time to look at renovating the building. After much discussion plans were made and in October 1992 the renovations were commenced. His Excellency Rear Admiral Peter Sinclair AC, Governor of New South Wales officially re-opened the original building on September 4th. 1993.

This building was named Pender House, Benhome. Eight more residents were able to be accommodated. The total residents is now 79, still with two rooms used for respite. I can never stress enough the boundless generosity of individuals and groups of people who over the years have supported Benhome in their own manner - some with money and/or goods or entertainment, others as volunteers to keep the committee continuing with the excellent work of caring in a way conductive to the needs of the aged. We the committee of Benhome, the staff and the residents, work with one another to make Benhome "A Home Within".