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 latest improvements have been made
in the period from 1983 -1991.
During this time 10 of the cottages have been
converted from bed sitting rooms with shared
kitchen and toilet/bathroom to
self contained cottages.

The last 2 cottages have been converted and
upgraded during 1996.

The size of the rooms in the main
building have been upgraded and each has its own toilet facilities.

Also we now have staff changing facilities
and an office link area, all of which helps to maintain a caring relationship with our 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.