In a very real sense this amazing woman was the reason I moved to Derbyshire. Bess of Hardwick was a very strong, clever and shrewd lady who graced this county in the 16th century. Through her charismatic personality and strength of will she managed to negotiate four marriages in her lifetime, and came out on top after each successive husband died, before dying herself at a ripe old age. She developed a very close relationship with Queen Elizabeth 1st and towards the end of her long life she became the richest woman in England, after the Queen herself.
Last week I was lucky enough to be invited to a 'behind the scenes' tour of her powerful house, Hardwick Hall. An English Elizabethan interpretation of Italian renaissance architecture. What a power house, a testament to her status as Countess of Shrewsbury and everything she had worked for.
Bess worked her entire life to one end, that of creating a fabulously wealthy dynasty. Which she did and then some. In her last marriage in 1567 to the Earl of Shrewsbury, she acquired the status she sought. One of her conditions in agreeing to marry the Earl was that her daughter Mary would marry his son Gilbert and her son Henry would marry his daughter Grace. Thus ensuring the coffers of the Earls of Shrewsbury would continue to benefit her offspring through the next generations. A very clever move.
The house is now looked after by the National trust, after being given over to the nation in lieu of death duties after the untimely death of the 10th Duke of Devonshire. These particular dukes, amongst others, are descendants of Bess of Hardwick.
During my visit I was thrilled to see a housecoat that is believed to have been worn by Bess. These are not fantastic images I know, but the garment could not be moved. The deep purple colour still glowed after over 400 years.
I also was taken up to the roof, to wonder at the views and incredibly I was allowed to enter Bess' private banqueting room. The rooftop houses three other similar single room dwellings. Such history.
A remarkable place that befits such a remarkable woman.
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Your country's history amazes and enchants me. Gah!! There is an entire world up on the roof even! ~Robin~
ReplyDeleteIt was a real privilege to be able to visit the special places of Bess. Only her closest friends were allowed in her banqueting room, where it was impossible to be over heard.
DeleteWow...a SCIF before SCIFs were a thing!
DeleteWhat a magnificent building, and to be invited on a behind the scenes tour is always a bonus! It must have been thrilling indeed to see that 400-year old housecoat, and those rooftop dwellings sound very intriguing! Thank you so much for sharing, Jean. This is really getting me in the mood for visiting some NT properties next month! xxx
ReplyDeleteOoooh does that mean you're visiting England in June? Perhaps we could meet up for a coffee if you have time and are not a million miles from Derbyshire.
DeleteAn astute woman, indeed. My husband's sister-in-law is a Hardwick by birth, but not related . . .
ReplyDeleteHow interesting, such a grand name.
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