# Charitable Giving in Victorian Britain

- Link: https://fundraising.co.uk/books/charitable-giving-in-victorian-britain/
- Published: 2025-08-11T16:23:11+01:00
- Author: Howard Lake

## The Legacy of Samuel Jones Loyd

**This book examines the growth of charity in nineteenth century Britain through
the lens of the philanthropic activities of Samuel Jones Loyd, 1st Baron Overstone,
over a 40-year period.**

Sarah Flew incorporates comprehensive archival research, and analyses Samuel Jones
Loyd’s financial ledgers and letters, in order to illuminate both Jones Loyd’s philanthropic
motives, and broader social issues in Britain and abroad during the Victorian era.

Structured around the different recipients of Jones Loyd’s 2,880 donations, this
book offers detailed insight into the philanthropic market place of the 19th century,
in addition to a variety of eminent social issues – such as the cholera outbreaks
of 1849 and 1866, the education of children and adults, and emergency appeals at
home and overseas.

The author demonstrates how instances of charitable action widely increased during
Victorian Britain through comprehensive exploration of Jones Loyd’s philanthropy,
Against the backdrop of a growing British economy, this volume analyses the events
contributing to the establishment of the Charity Commission in 1853, in addition
to the expansion of voluntary agencies and funds. Ultimately, Flew crafts a detailed
insight into the charitable landscape of 19th century Britain, and highlights how
one forty-year period of giving can offer new perspectives on the social fabric 
of the period.

**Sarah Flew** is Director of Development at the Royal College of Physicians.