# Oldest charity in England and Wales?

- Link: https://fundraising.co.uk/2001/06/19/oldest-charity-england-and-wales/
- Published: 2001-06-19T23:00:00+01:00
- Author: Howard Lake

Amnesty International celebrated its 40th birthday last month, and Oxfam reached
50 back in 1992, but which is the oldest charity in England and Wales? Marking the
400th anniversary of the passing the Act of Charitable Uses of 1601, which effectively
defined today’s charitable status, the Charity Commission is trying to find the 
oldest charity still in operation.

The King’s School Canterbury, founded 597 and re-founded c.1541, is currently leading
the list. If your charity is older, contact Jane Grenfell at the Charity Commission
before 30 August 2001.

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