The Downton Era: Great Houses, Churchills, and Mitfords: A Talk with Author Nancy Parrish - 11:00am

Who was the most beautiful woman in England in the twentieth century – and why did she become the most hated woman? Who spent £ 535,000 to remodel her house for a king's weekend visit? What country house has a roof that is seven acres in size? What prime minister's mother had at least twenty lovers? The answers to such startling questions show that history is an unnerving mixture of breathtaking moments and punishing reversals. Join author Nancy Parrish as she discusses her book The Downton Era: Great Houses, Churchills, and Mitfords. By exploring the interwoven family chronicles of the Churchills and their cousins, the Mitfords, we see history at a personalized level. In their lives are woven together stories of great houses, the lure and weight of title, the range and challenge of political influence, and the privileged entrapments that undermined their dazzling social world. Special attention will be paid to the story of Agecroft Hall and its journey to Virginia.

In keeping with physical distancing requirements and our cleaning protocols, Nancy Parrish will be offering this talk twice on October 17th at Agecroft Hall to ensure proper spacing. Hand saniztizer is conveniently located throughout the museum and masks are required of all staff, volunteers, and visitors.