Time capsule discovery reveals orphanage’s past

Wednesday, 18 July 2012

By Ben Morgan

A TIME capsule buried 50 years ago has been discovered by workmen and a copy of the South London Press was found inside.

The discovery was made by builders demolishing the old Norwood Hall, in Knight’s Hill, built in 1962 on the site of a former orphanage.

The edition of the South London Press from November 30, 1962, also reveals that builders at the time discovered another capsule buried in 1861 when the foundation stone of the orphanage was laid.

The orphanage was called the Norwood Home for Jewish Children and the capsule also contains a Star of David, as well as coins.

The items have been donated to the Norwood Old Scholars’ Association (NOSA).

The group’s secretary Tony Seager said: “We are a charitable organisation set up 40 years ago, to help former residents of the home keep in touch and to give financial assistance and help to those who need it.

“We also, wherever possible, try to preserve anything to do with our heritage.

“As well as the Star of David going to the Norwood organisation, the drinking fountain which was in the grounds of the orphanage has also been preserved by the Friends of Norwood Cemetery working with Lambeth council and English Heritage.

“It will be reinstated at St Luke’s Cemetery, West Norwood.”

Mr Seager thanked the Lambeth councillors and the contractors involved for ensuring the find was preserved.

Councillor Lib Peck said: “It’s fascinating to open something that lay untouched for half a century and we plan to carry on the tradition by burying a new time capsule that reflects life in Lambeth in 2012. “I’m delighted that we have been able to offer the contents to Norwood Old Scholars Association, and that they are helping to preserve the Star of David that used to hang of the side of the old hall.”

Work will now continue on the £16.5million Knight’s Hill development, which will involve building a fitness centre, 25m swimming pool, doctors’ and dentists’ surgeries by spring 2014.

Cllr Peck said: “This new Norwood Hall will be fantastic for the area and is going to provide a real centre for the local community. “It’s going to mean local people will be able to get exercise, visit the doctor, get information and support from the council, or come together to take part in classes or as part of a community group – all under one roof.”

Email: ben.morgan@slp.co.uk

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