John Wissmann, the Dulwich College- educated son of a naturalised German who became Dulwich Village’s first casualty of World War One when he died at the first battle of Aisne on 15 September 1914, also lived here. In 1926 the house was taken over by Dulwich College as a home for the Master: first George Smith, then Walter Booth and lastly Christopher Gilkes lived here. After World War Two it became a junior boarding house for about thirty-five boys. The original Georgian rooms on the second and third floor served as the housemaster’s family home while the drawing room and several bedrooms in the Victorian extension became dormitories. First-hand accounts from ex-boarders have painted a vivid picture of life here, telling of escapades over the rooftops, out-
of-control firework parties and adventures in the cellar which was used by the boys as a den complete with model railway, snooker and table tennis. Now Bell House starts a new chapter in its history, providing a tranquil and creative environment for people of all ages and backgrounds to learn new skills, collaborate in shared interests and make connections. The house now belongs to the Bell House educational charity, a volunteer-led group which is turning Bell House into an educational centre offering provision outside the mainstream school curriculum, dyslexia support, lifelong learning, exhibitions and events. Bell House will offer children and adults the opportunity to unleash their creativity or engage with subjects they have never tried before. Courses will include
film-making, cookery, gardening, computer skills, use of social media, skills for business and more. Free or subsidised places will be available for all activities and events will also be made available online.
If you would like to find out more please go to www.bellhouse.co.uk
Sharon O’Connor would welcome hearing from any OAs with memories of the house, including photographs: sharon @ bellhouse.co.uk
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