Our history.

As reported in The Times newspaper the following day, the founding meeting of the Linen, Drapers, Silk-Mercers, Haberdashers, Hosiers & Lacemen Institution (as the Retail Trust was originally known) had “a clear purpose of organising a benevolent union of these trades, to encourage the poor and meritorious of their several bodies.” 

By all accounts it was a hugely invigorating meeting, with bold proclamations and “immense cheering” throughout! The appropriately named Thomas Helps was named as first Chairman of a society designed to aid employees who worked in what was then the predominantly wholesale drapery sector. 

The Times noted: “The founders of the institution were men whose conditions in society, and relations with their mercantile fellow-men, placed them beyond the possibility of having any other view than to establish such a confederacy of good feeling and right principle among the members of several walks of business as would produce a rich and lasting harvest of advantage to others.” 

With Thomas Helps proclaiming the purpose of the institution: “To promote the happiness and interests of those engaged in the trade.” This has become the founding principle that drives the Retail Trust’s cause today. 

As the 19th century drew to a close, the charity – by now known as The Linen & Woollen Drapers’ Institution – became closely associated with modern department stores. Among the supporters were James Marshall and John Snelgrove of the Marsall & Snelgrove department stores, Peter R Jones, who built his eponymous store on Sloane Square, William and Frank Debenham and David (DH) Evans. 

At this stage the institution decided to take care of retirees from the capital’s stores. President James Marshall donated the four-acre Mill Hill site. With John Snelgrove he constructed the central block of buildings, including Marshall Hall and 50 cottage homes. 

It is often argued that one of the reasons why the Marshall & Snelgrove business flourished at this time was that John Snelgrove was a real pioneer in looking after his staff and keeping them happy. In fact, he was fundamental in the institute of half-day closing on Saturdays. On 14 July 1866 an illuminated hand written plaque was presented to him by grateful employees and you can still find this in the reception at Marshall Hall today. 

Her Royal Highness the late Queen Elizabeth II was our Royal Patron from 1948 to 2022. Over 74 years, Her Majesty was a gracious supporter of the charity, making a number of visits to our estates and joining us for numerous fundraising events.   

Her Majesty’s visits always attracted immense interest and support both from the residents and local communities. We are extremely proud, honoured and thankful to have had such a long history of royal patronage.