Langdon Down

X Clear filter

1828

John Langdon Down was born in Cornwall, the son of a frequently bankrupt grocer. He went on to train in medicine at the London Hospital where he excelled, and was later put in charge of the Earlswood Asylum when it ran into difficulties under previous management.

1868

Exterior of imposing Victorian building at Langdon Down with lawn and trees

Normansfield Hospital was founded by John Langdon Down in 1868 as a home for people with learning disabilities. He employed teachers and created workshops where residents could learn a trade.  Normansfield also had a cultural life.