A Lost Treasure of Lincolnshire
Introduction
Easton Hall, once a magnificent country house in Lincolnshire, was a stately home with a rich history spanning centuries. Originally a medieval manor, it underwent significant transformations before ultimately being demolished in the early 1950s. The estate was home to generations of the Cholmeley family and even captured the admiration of prominent figures, including Franklin D. Roosevelt. This article explores the fascinating history, architecture, and ultimate decline of Easton Hall.
The Early History of Easton Hall
Origins and the Cholmeley Family
The Manor of Easton was purchased by Sir Henry Cholmeley in 1606. The Cholmeleys, originally from Cheshire, established themselves as prominent landowners in Lincolnshire. Over the centuries, they undertook multiple renovations, each adding to the grandeur of Easton Hall.
The 19th Century Rebuild
By the early 1800s, significant changes were made to the estate. In 1805, Sir Montague Cholmeley demolished the west wing of the house, rebuilding parts of the structure to create a more contemporary residence. The medieval village of Easton was also removed around this time. Further expansions were undertaken by his son in the 1840s, transforming the Hall into a striking example of Tudor Revival architecture.
Architectural Splendor of Easton Hall
Exterior Design and Gardens
By 1872, Easton Hall was recognized as a “large, handsome mansion” featuring impressive stonework, intricate bay windows, and a majestic arched entrance porch. One of its most distinctive features was a large conservatory attached to the west front. The pleasure grounds surrounding the estate were meticulously landscaped, adorned with fountains, statues, and terraced gardens. The walled gardens and other structures were attributed to the renowned architect Anthony Salvin in 1836.
The Interior Grandeur
Inside, Easton Hall boasted a grand entrance hall, complete with a gallery and suits of armor. The house displayed an extensive collection of valuable paintings and artwork. The south wing, featuring five large arched windows, flooded the ground floor with natural light, creating an opulent yet welcoming atmosphere.
The Early 20th Century: A Period of Change
Montague Aubrey Rowley Cholmeley
Sir Arthur Henry Cholmeley, the 3rd Baronet, passed away in 1904, leaving the estate to his son, Montague Aubrey Rowley Cholmeley. A former captain in the Grenadier Guards, he inherited both the estate and the title but soon found himself preoccupied with other pursuits. The family spent much of their time at Norton Place, another estate they owned in North Lincolnshire. Consequently, Easton Hall was rented out in 1907 to Captain Marshall Roberts.
Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Visit
Easton Hall became a sought-after destination for the elite. One of its most notable visitors was Franklin D. Roosevelt, who visited the estate at least three times. His final visit was during his honeymoon in 1905, after which he described Easton Hall as “a dream almost too good to be true.”
The Role of Easton Hall in World War I
A Wartime Hospital
During World War I, Easton Hall was repurposed as a convalescent hospital for wounded soldiers. The estate provided a serene environment for recovery, and its role in the war effort further cemented its place in local history.
The Death of Montague Cholmeley
Montague Aubrey Rowley Cholmeley rejoined his regiment at the outbreak of the war. Sadly, he was killed in action on Christmas Eve, 1914, during the Battle of La Bassée in France. His death left the estate in the hands of his young son, Hugh John Francis Sibthorp Cholmeley, who was just eight years old at the time.
The Decline of Easton Hall
The Post-War Period and Changing Fortunes
The post-war years were challenging for many British estates, and Easton Hall was no exception. Economic struggles, rising maintenance costs, and changes in land ownership laws made it increasingly difficult to sustain such a large property.
Captain Marshall Roberts and the Golf Course
Marshall Owen Roberts, a wealthy sportsman, rented Easton Hall in the early 1900s. He developed a renowned golf course on the estate, attracting top players, including British Open champion Harry Vardon. Some believe that an early version of the Ryder Cup was played here before the event’s official establishment in 1927. However, following Roberts’ departure, the golf course was abandoned and eventually reclaimed by nature.
The Final Years and Demolition
By the 1920s, Easton Hall was largely unoccupied, except for caretakers. Attempts to find new tenants were unsuccessful. During World War II, the estate suffered further damage, leading to its eventual demolition between 1951 and 1952. The remains of the grand house were cleared, leaving behind only a levelled platform and remnants of its once-glorious gardens.
Legacy of Easton Hall
The Gardens and Estate Today
Although the house itself is gone, parts of the gardens and estate remain accessible to the public. The gardens, which had once inspired admiration from dignitaries and visitors alike, have been restored and are now a popular attraction.
Historical Significance
Easton Hall’s story is emblematic of many British country estates that fell into decline after the world wars. While the house no longer stands, its memory lives on through historical records, photographs, and the restored gardens that continue to attract visitors today.
Conclusion
Easton Hall was more than just a stately home—it was a cultural and historical landmark that bore witness to centuries of change. From its medieval origins to its heyday in the Victorian and Edwardian eras, and finally to its tragic decline, the story of Easton Hall is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by Britain’s great country houses. Though the building itself is lost, its legacy endures in the landscape and in the stories passed down through generations.
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