Hello David. Mary Highfield was elected into the Cambridge Asylum for Soldiers' Widows in 1915. In this case "Asylum" should be seen in its original sense as a place of refuge. This was a charity opened in 1854 and funded by private subscription. These subscribers included regimental welfare groups. Widows had to be over a certain age and of good character. Their husbands had to have served for a number of years that changed over time but usually about 14 yeas. They also had to be of good character. Women had to be nominated and then elected by subscribers. The more money the subscribers contributed the more people they could nominate and the more votes they had. Elections were held every year and the number of women admitted depended on the number of vacancies. The home had room for about 70 women. In the notice of the election for 1915 you will see that some are shown as "in waiting" and were admitted if a vacancy occurred during the year.
You probably know that Mary's first husband was Edward Mayman, a sergeant in the 14th Hussars. It was on the basis of his service that Mary was granted admittance. Unlike workhouses and other institutions of this time, this place was much sort after. Women received a small allowance and had their own rooms and kitchen.
Let me know if there is anything else you need to know.
Carolyn
