Serving seniors across the United States since 1915…

Victoria Home

The Victoria Home, founded in 1915, overlooks the banks of the Hudson River in Ossining, NY.

The Victoria Home, founded in 1915, overlooks the banks of the Hudson River in Ossining, NY.

Founded in 1915 by the DBE in the Eastern District of the United States, Victoria Home opened its doors with a clear mission: to provide the elderly with the highest levels of personalized care and attention, and the most comfortable, nurturing environment, during the twilight years of their lives.

Nestled on a Victorian estate with manicured lawns overlooking the Hudson River, Victoria Home was a not-for-profit skilled nursing facility that accommodated 49 full-time male and female residents, of all races, color, and creed and was certified by the New York State Department of Health.

The Victoria Home was the first home founded by the DBE. In the early days of the organization, many British women applied to the society for help and a need was seen to house them under one roof. Money was raised and, with the help of a mortgage, the Dunham Estate in West Brighton on Staten Island was purchased. By 1926, a larger home was needed and funds were raised to purchase the McAlpin estate on the banks of the Hudson River in Ossining, New York. In 1954 the Home was honored by a visit of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, who took tea with the residents and greeted each one personally.

It is with much sadness and regret that the National Board announces that in 2020 Victoria Home ceased operations.


The British Home at Cantata

The Midwestern District cares for The British Home in Brookfield, Illinois, founded in 1920. With the help of Samuel Insull’s donation of 10 acres in 1922, the British Home celebrated its grand opening in 1925 with 24 original residents. In the early days, many employees also lived on campus. Employees and residents worked together to plant a vegetable garden and tend a chicken coop. Much of the fruit, vegetables and eggs were then used by employees in preparing meals for residents.

The British Home, founded in 1920, has grown so large that an entire campus has been built around it.

The British Home, founded in 1920, has grown so large that an entire campus has been built around it.

The original British Home still stands today as the British Home Rehabilitation Services at the center of a thriving senior campus. DBE’s partnership with Cantata Adult Life Services has helped The Home to evolve into the innovative organization that it is today. Our campus proudly offers Independent Living, Assisted Living, Enhanced Living, Long Term Care, Home Health Care, and Non-Medical Home Care, in addition to the British Home Rehabilitation Services.


The British Home in California

The British Home in California, Ltd. is the pride of the Western District. “A little hidden gem on a hill with many huge hearts” aptly describes The British Home is nestled in the attractive foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains in the charming town of Sierra Madre. Purchasing the property in 1930, the DBE opened the historic landmark in 1931. Today, The British Home reflects a typical retirement home populated by a diverse group of citizens and residents of all nationalities and walks of life, creating a harmonious and loving family home.

The British Home, nestled in peaceful Sierra Madre, CA, was founded in 1930.

The British Home, nestled in peaceful Sierra Madre, CA, was founded in 1930.

The British Home is an independent American owned 501(c)(3) corporation. Licensed to accommodate more than 40 residents and described as “typical,” the home maintains its historic uniqueness providing gracious, independent and assisted living in this secure and peaceful residential neighborhood. They are proud of their history and in today’s hectic life style, are secure in the approach of blending “old world” charm and tradition with modernity. Honoring our goals and mission, we the DBE help subsidize a certain percentage of residents who are in need.

Engaging many well-known visitors over her lifetime, from the Consuls General of Great Britain, Canada, Australia and New Zealand and honored royal visits from HRH, Princess Margaret and Princess Alexandra, The Home’s highlight of all visits occurred in 1983 when graced by the presence of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.


mountbatten house

Mountbatten House sits peacefully just 20 miles outside of Houston, TX in the small town of Highlands.

Mountbatten House sits peacefully just 20 miles outside of Houston, TX in the small town of Highlands.

Mountbatten House, opened in 1983 is situated 20 miles east of downtown Houston in the small town of Highlands, Texas. After repeated resident and staff evacuations and repairs due to flooding and storm damage, we were forced to announce closure of the Home in October 2024. It was a non-profit assisted living home that provides cost-effective quality care for both men and women under the patronage of the DBE.

A memorial rose garden welcomed you on arrival and the large grounds were attractively landscaped with shade trees and a circular path. The Home was comfortably furnished with two attractive living areas, both with electronic entertainment systems. The smaller, more intimate living area was peaceful and used for relaxing, crafts, games, and visiting with family and friends. The comfortable dining room also served as a game and party room where families, guests, and members congregate. We were proud to provide a warm, home-like setting for our residents.