Diplocks Cottages
were built in 1936 as a memorial to Caleb Diplock,
a wealthy Polegate resident and landowner.

The twelve cottages were built for
the poor and needy living within three miles
of the Parish Church.

The Cottages were put up for sale in 1945
following the successful contesting of
his Will by distant relatives.

With the generous help of the Bernhard Baron Trust,
the cottages were purchased and renamed the Bernhard Baron Cottage Homes.

Under the Trusteeship of the
Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)
the cottages are for those in need, of any religion or political opinion, providing this is not made
a nuisance to others.

The first Residents were elderly evacuees,
who had been made homeless in the 1939-45 war.

The dining room, sitting room and main corridor were built in 1950 followed by three other corridors and various other improvements at intervals since .

The cottages have been converted from bed sitting rooms with shared kitchen and toilet/bathroom to
self contained cottages, and a continuous programme of improvements has seen new showers and refurbished kitchens fitted

In 2007/08 we had an extension built to one of the wings,  together with a new lounge, residents laundry and assisted bath facilities to provide more appropriate accommodation for couples in the main building. Additionally, the size of the rooms in the main building have been upgraded and each now has its own toilet facilities, and most have en-suite showers.

We have also improved our reception and office areas providing an easier and more welcome access area for residents

We have, throughout the history of the Homes,
been grateful for the generosity and support
we have received to help purchase
and improve the Homes.