Robert Aske, English merchant and philanthropist (b. 1619)

Robert Aske, born on 24 February 1619 and passing on 27 January 1689, was a prominent figure within the vibrant mercantile landscape of 17th-century London. As a successful merchant and haberdasher, his life was deeply intertwined with the economic and social fabric of the City of London, a global hub for trade and commerce during that era. Haberdashers, during this period, were significant traders dealing in a wide array of small wares, including needles, threads, ribbons, buttons, and other personal adornments, often imported from across Europe.

Aske's enduring legacy, however, extends far beyond his commercial success. He is primarily remembered for the substantial charitable foundation meticulously established through his estate, an act of profound philanthropy that continues to benefit countless individuals centuries later. This foundation was designed to provide for the less fortunate, embodying the philanthropic spirit often displayed by wealthy citizens and liverymen of London.

The Genesis of Aske's Charitable Trust

Robert Aske's will, executed in 1688, explicitly laid out his intentions for his significant wealth. He bequeathed a substantial sum to The Worshipful Company of Haberdashers, one of the historic Great Twelve Livery Companies of the City of London, to act as trustees. His vision was clear: to establish an institution that would offer support and education. Initially, Aske's foundation aimed to provide for:

• Twenty poor old men and women, offering them accommodation and a modest stipend in an almshouse.
• Twenty poor boys, who were to be educated and prepared for apprenticeships, particularly the orphans or sons of impoverished freemen of The Haberdashers' Company.

This dual purpose of providing shelter for the elderly and education for the young was revolutionary for its time, addressing critical social needs within the community. The original site for this benevolent institution was in Hoxton, then a rural area on the outskirts of London, where the almshouse and school were constructed.

Evolution of the Haberdashers' Educational Legacy

Over the centuries, the focus of Robert Aske's original foundation evolved in response to changing societal needs and educational priorities. While the almshouse component eventually ceased operation, the educational mission flourished, becoming the primary focus of Aske's bequest and The Haberdashers' Company's stewardship.

Today, the charitable foundation derived from Robert Aske's estate, managed by The Haberdashers' Company, is renowned for operating a number of highly regarded educational institutions. Among these are two flagship schools located in Hertfordshire, celebrated for their academic excellence and holistic development:

• Haberdashers' Boys' School (often known as "Habs Boys") in Elstree, Hertfordshire, established as a grammar school and evolving into a leading independent school.
• Haberdashers' Girls' School (often known as "Habs Girls") in Elstree, Hertfordshire, likewise a prestigious independent school for girls.

Beyond these two prominent schools in Hertfordshire, Aske's legacy, managed through the broader educational trusts of The Haberdashers' Company, supports a wider network of schools across England. This includes a number of academies and independent schools, extending the opportunity for quality education to diverse communities. Examples include Haberdashers' Aske's Crayford Academy, Haberdashers' Aske's Hatcham College, and Haberdashers' Aske's Knights Academy, among others.

Frequently Asked Questions about Robert Aske's Legacy

Who was Robert Aske?

Robert Aske (1619-1689) was a successful London merchant and haberdasher who established a significant charitable foundation through his will, primarily remembered for its enduring contribution to education.

What was Robert Aske's main contribution?

His primary contribution was the establishment of a charitable trust through his estate, which initially provided an almshouse for the elderly and a school for poor boys, eventually evolving to focus entirely on education through a network of schools.

What is The Haberdashers' Company's role in Robert Aske's legacy?

The Haberdashers' Company, one of the historic livery companies of the City of London, acts as the trustee and manager of Robert Aske's charitable foundation, ensuring his philanthropic intentions continue to be fulfilled through the operation and oversight of numerous schools.

What schools are associated with Robert Aske's foundation?

The foundation is most famously associated with Haberdashers' Boys' School and Haberdashers' Girls' School in Hertfordshire. Additionally, The Haberdashers' Company, building upon this philanthropic tradition, now sponsors and supports other academies and schools across England, extending quality education to a broader student body.