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Looking back to look forward (9th October 2013)

From 1467 gallons of milk per six months to stories of fighter biplanes, the archives of the National Trust’s Dudmaston Hall are proving an interesting read for staff and volunteers as they make preparations for a new exhibition for 2014.

Captain Wolryche-Whitmore served during World War I on the Eastern front but, the property has discovered that he was behind the lines due to his poor hearing. Every Monday, Wednesday and Sunday until the end of October visitors can see the property’s Conservation Assistants looking through the various letters sent from and to himself whilst he was serving, that are held within the property’s collections. In additional old journals relating to the upkeep of the estate in the 1920’s are also being explored.

Alongside this recollections from past residents will be played back to visitors as they browse the galleries, including recordings taken from Lady Labouchere herself.

Visitor Experience and Conservation Manager, Tessa Lovell said “this is the perfect opportunity for visitors to come and find out a bit more about the social history of our wonderful estate. We have a fantastic collection of letters sent by Captain Geoffrey and his family during the war years and want to ensure that we collate the best of these for our exhibition taking place next year. There are also loads of fascinating insights into life on the estate during the post was ‘Downton’ era. Visitors will have the opportunity to see this research in action and question our Conservation Assistants about the work they are undertaking.

Dudmaston is now open to visitors Sunday to Thursday each week until 31st October 2013 when the property will move to weekend only opening.

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