In 1851, at a general meeting, the Beer and Wine Trade Society discusssed how to help its aged members. It was decided to open a subscription, with one of its objects being "to raise a fund from which to allow temporary or permanent assistance to members of the trade". However, it was thought the most useful way to do this was to emulate the licensed victuallers, who had provided an asylum for their own elderly poor members.

A freehold piece of land on the northern side of Nunhead Green was purchased for £550. A successful appeal was launched to raise funds to erect the almshouses. The foundation stone was laid in June 1852 by Lord Monteagle, the patron of the Society.

The Metropolitan Beer and Wine Trade Almshouses opened in September 1853. They had cost about £3,000 to build and consisted of a terrace of seven houses, providing dwellings for 13 people. Each almshouse contained four rooms and a kitchen and each had a piece of garden at the back for use by the residents.

In 1872 a wing of 8 almshouses was added, providing accommodation for 16 additional residents. These almshouses each contained six rooms. By this time single residents received a weekly allowance of 6 shillings (30p) and married couples 9 shillings (45p).

Current status