Registered Charity No. 225318
Joseph Rank
Freedom of the City of Hull
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Joseph Rank built up a multi-million pound business empire in his life time which he handed onto his sons who went on to expand into other areas of business i.e. Rank films and cinemas.
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Joseph Rank was offered many honours for his charitable work but accepted only one – the Freedom of his birth city, Hull which he was presented in 1935.
Our 90th Anniversary
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On the 30th November 1934 the Board of Trustees met for the first time at The Royal Station hotel, Hull and signed the Deed of Trust which marked the start of The Joseph Rank Benevolent Fund.
The founder, Mr Joseph Rank (1854-1943) addressed the Trustees and explained the objectives of the Fund and how the money was to be distributed. As well as supporting local charities, Mr Rank directed that his charity was to “be devoted to the payment of pensions to poor persons, who, from age, ill health, accident or infirmity, are unable to earn their living by their own exertions.”
He concluded his address he said: “I am making this foundation in the hope that it will be of great comfort to a number of people during a very long future.”
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We are delighted to be celebrating our 90th Anniversary - 1934-2024
Joseph Rank image courtesy of Joseph Rank Trust, other images courtesy of Hull City Council Museum Service
Exhibition at Streetlife Museum Hull
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If you would like to know more about Joseph Rank, the “Mighty Miller” please visit the Streetlife Museum in Hull’s museum quarter. An exhibition was opened in April 2013 and can be found on the first floor overlooking the site of the old Ranks’ mill. Check opening times on www.hullcc.gov.uk
The Joseph Rank Story