54/3 Childhood Memories a photographic history of Dr Barnardo's

Corris House was first opened in 1929 and the official opening took place in 1930 with the Lord Mayor and Lord Forester in attendance. Corris House originally catered for fifty two boys, aged from five to 14 years. For a long time it was home to boys on a long term basis, but in latter years this was changed and boys have lived at Corris House for a shorter period of time, most were returned to their own homes on leaving school.

The referrals for this home have diminished, and for this reason, coupled with the fact that Corris House is so far from the majority of boys' own homes, has lead to the decision to close the home. Added to these two facts is that to retain it Barnardo's would want to improve the staff accommodation and such a project would necessitate a great amount of money being spent on the House.

In 1976 The Guild Messenger reported: The news of closing the home has already come as a surprise to many Old Boys who are still in contact with Mr. G. Ecclestone. The Midlands will not be the same without it, and closure will mean a loss to many Old Boys, who look back on their time spent there with fond memories. Mr. Ecclestone will still be remaining in the area and would welcome contact from Old Boys.

Corris House is to close in August of 1979. In 1996 Corris House was used as an old folks home and has a mini housing estate built around the old home.

Calling all old boys do you remember John "Jack" Johnstone who moved to Canada, Can you name any of the faces apart from Jack that is. For more information on Jack click here

Photo taken 1947 outside Corris House