Legacies
Downing owes its foundation to a legacy.
When, several decades of legal wranglings, the Royal Charter was finally granted, Sir George Downing’s place in history was assured.
He could not have envisaged the changes Downing College has undergone since 1800, and yet it has remained true to its principles and traditions from generation to generation of students. Its status is now as one of the leading Colleges in the University of Cambridge with a fine all-round reputation.
Downing itself is a living legacy, being an excellent example of large-scale neo-classical style architecture. Despite the grandeur of its appearance, the College is nevertheless modestly endowed, from the financial point of view not benefiting as its neighbours did in the past from a rich or aristocratic clientele. As an academic establishment, Downing boasts a relatively small but excellent Fellowship, undertaking teaching and research to the frontiers of modern knowledge.
For two hundred years, Downing’s graduates have become the backbone of their communities as doctors, lawyers, clergy, teachers and business people. Many have attained eminence as writers, actors, diplomats, entrepreneurs and academics.
Today Downing is thriving and successful. The achievements of the past, both long-standing and recent, have given the College confidence to tackle the challenges of the future.
To continue to thrive we need our members to continue to help the College through their Wills. All alumni who indicate to us in writing that they wish to make a legacy to the College will become members of the 1749 Society whose Honorary President is Mr John Hopkins, Fellow Emeritus, and which holds a special garden party in the College every summer.
Please complete the form if you would like to receive a Legacy Pack.