Chelsea hospital

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Chelsea hospital (London) was founded by Charles II for veteran soldiers. The pensioners wear an 18th-cent. uniform and celebrate the founder on Oak Apple Day (29 May). The buildings were by Christopher Wren and the foundation stone was laid on 17 February 1682. The duke of Wellington lay in state at the hospital in 1852, when several people died in the crush to pay respects. The Chelsea Flower Show is held annually in the gardens.

J. A. Cannon

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