Battersea’s historic lodge gains listed building status

Here at Eden Harper, we're always keen to demonstrate our support for Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.  

We think they do an incredible job and we admire the hard work that their staff put in to care for thousands of dogs per year. Battersea is one of the oldest and most famous rescue centres in the world and has a strong, rich history. In its 155th year, the charity has built its reputation to a remarkable point, taking in lost abandoned and unwanted animals. In 2012 it was the subject of a popular documentary called Paul O'Grady: For the Love of Dogs.  

So we thought we'd highlight the latest news regarding the home. Whittington Lodge, a rendered brick building that dates back to 1907, has been awarded Grade II Listed status by Heritage Minister Ed Vaizey MP, and staff have even named one of the home’s cats Whittington to celebrate!  

The lodge was designed by architect Clough Williams-Ellis, who was responsible for the Italianate masterpiece Portmeirion in north Wales and is adored today for its unique Arts and Crafts touches (this was an international movement in the decorative and fine arts in Europe and North America between 1880 and 1910).  

Battersea’s lodge was actually used by the home at the turn of the 20th century and provided a safe home for 787 stray cats in its first year of use. And, believe it or not (yes, we imagine it will have crossed your mind) the lodge was named after Dick Whittington. The folklore Dick Whittington and His Cat was the story behind the real-life Richard Whittington, who escaped poverty to make his fortune in London in the 14th and 15th centuries and who became Lord Mayor of London.   

Whittington Lodge was interestingly, the nation's first cattery. The Home has looked after almost 250,000 cats since it was built and Whittington Lodge has even survived two World Wars.   

Claire Horton, Chief Executive at Battersea, said: “Listing accreditation for this wonderful architectural treasure further cements Battersea’s status as one of the intrinsic parts of the London landscape.”  

Whittington Lodge sits in the entrance courtyard of the Home and all visitors to the kennels and cattery at the Home pass by this listed feature so they can take a full look and see this unique slice of history.  

Oh and just one more thing you may wish to know... 

Seven week-old Whittington arrived in November with her litter siblings, after the mum disappeared due to building works. The domestic short hair kitten is currently being fostered until she finds a new home! 

Image credit: flickr.com