Dorset Hall was built in 18th Century, and appears to be Georgian, but a Queen Anne House hides beneath. It is Grade II listed (designated in 1954) and sits within the John Innes Conservation Area.
Rose Lamartine Yates
Rose (left) campaigned throughout her life for women’s rights including internationally. She was elected as an Independent Councillor for the LCC in North Lambeth
Rose and husband Tom. Rose made history in 1907 as first female elected to the Cyclists Touring Club Council.
Rose (centre) at a WSPU event celebrating the release of Suffragette hunger-strikers in the gardens of her home, Dorset Hall, June 1912.
Rose speaking at a women’s suffrage meeting on Wimbledon Common, 1913.
Building History
Dorset Hall was built in 18th Century, and appears to be Georgian, but a Queen Anne House hides beneath. It is Grade II listed (designated in 1954) and sits within the John Innes Conservation Area.
During the suffragettes movement Rose provided legal advice and refuge at Dorset Hall. She also hosted WSPU fundraising events in the garden.
Alterations Over Time
Dilapidation, Repairs and Progress
The property was deemed to be not fit for purpose and was vacated in 2016 . Due to lack of maintenance the property has since fallen into a state of disrepair.
Barbara Gorna formed DHG in 2020 after discovering the building in a state of dereliction. DHG have worked with Clarion Housing, Merton Council & Historic England to get the roofs replaced to ensure Dorset Hall is weather proof and watertight to ensure protection of the building interiors. Drone images show the new roof in August 2022.
DHG, IF_DO Architects and the National Trust are working closely with Clarion Housing on an Options Appraisal for the building with a view to providing a sustainable future for Community use. Preserving a building of national significance to women’s suffrage in a local setting.
