Douglas Macmillan Blue Plaque

About This Blue Plaque

Douglas Macmillan was a remarkable British civil servant and philanthropist best known for founding Macmillan Cancer Support, one of the largest cancer support organizations in the UK. Born in 1884, Macmillan dedicated his life to improving the lives of those affected by cancer after losing his father to the disease.

In 1911, Macmillan founded the Society for the Prevention and Relief of Cancer, which would later become Macmillan Cancer Support. His pioneering vision was to provide information and support to all people affected by cancer. Under his leadership, the organization grew steadily, providing practical, medical and financial support to cancer patients and their families.

Macmillan lived at 15 Ranelagh Road in Pimlico, located in the City of Westminster. Westminster is a historic borough in central London, home to many of the city’s most iconic landmarks including Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey. The prestigious neighborhood of Pimlico, developed in the 19th century as a southern extension to neighboring Belgravia, features grand garden squares and Regency architecture.

Throughout his life, Macmillan remained dedicated to his cause. Even after retiring in 1945, he continued actively volunteering for the organization until his death in 1969 at the age of 85. Today, Macmillan Cancer Support continues his legacy by providing essential support services for cancer patients and their loved ones across the UK. This plaque, erected in 1997, commemorates the home where Douglas Macmillan lived while devoting his life to helping others facing cancer.