London's medieval hospitals and the reformation

Abstract

Pre Reformation London was well provided with hospitals. However, with the dissolution of the monasteries, these establishments (all of which were linked to religious foundations) suffered. Most closed their doors permanently and their inmates were cast onto the streets. At least ten hospitals ceased to exist. St Bartholomew's Hospital and the Savoy survived the tumultuous years of the 1540s. In 1553 The 'Royal Group' of five hospitals was founded, eventually comprising St Bartholomew's Hospital, St Thomas's Hospital, the Bethlehem, the Bridewell and Christ's Hospital. This was achieved more by pressure from the citizens of London led by Sir Richard Gresham than by Royal beneficence.