Founded in 1823 to support British migrants living in difficult circumstances in France, the BCF holds a unique place in the history of charitable giving in the 19th century.
The BCF archives paint a vivid picture of British migrants to France, from all trades and professions, who faced the challenges of political upheaval, war or natural disaster. The aim of the charity was to help them all, the elderly and the sick, orphaned and abandoned children. The BCF supported those who could work to get back on their feet, and others to return home.
Almost two centuries on, the BCF continues to assist British citizens who have made their homes in France and find themselves, for whatever reason, in desperate need of financial support.
Take an interactive journey below to discover the highlights of the BCF’s fascinating history, from its launch in 1823 to the BCF of today.
Highlights from the BCF's history
1823: LORD GRANVILLE
The British Ambassador, Lord Granville, established the BCF in 1823. Just a few years...
1830 to 1865: DISTINGUISHED...
Charles Dickens and Emperor Napoleon III ... Throughout the 19th century, and especially...
SIR RICHARD WALLACE, 1st BT....
200 year anniversary of one generous man in a time of great need. Read the story of Sir...
THE SIEGE OF PARIS AND THE...
In the winter of 1870-1871, the Prussians laid siege to Paris. Our principal benefactor...
THE GREAT EXHIBITION 1878
THE GREAT EXHIBITION 1878 saw another influx of people searching for work. Many were...
1900 THE BRISCO ENDOWMENT
1900 saw a radical change in the fortunes of the BCF when a hotly contested legacy in the...
THE PARIS FLOODS of 1910
Much of the city was inundated, devastating the lives of the poor in the city resulting...
THE FIRST WORLD WAR 1914/18
At the outbreak of the Great War almost 2000 British citizens from all parts of Europe...
THE 1930’s
Work increased for the Charity in the immediate aftermath of the war and then again...
WORLD WAR II
WORLD WAR II - From 1939, when many British workers lost their jobs and until 1940, when...
21st CENTURY: CHANGING NEEDS...
By the end of the 20th century requests for aid in the Paris area had declined markedly...