The heartbreaking discovery made during our French château restoration

[@WolvesinFrance]

As my French husband repeatedly says, if it wasn't for the English, Dutch, Belgians, Americans, Australians etc, renovating these stone properties inc the many many abandoned chateaux, France itself would be derelict. The brico stores have never had it so good. Bravo et bon courage, I love this channel, you deserve more subbers definitely 🤍😊❤😊💕

[@RaySqw785]

how do you know? because most don't waste thier time showing on Social medias? well, its not because alot foreigners buy estate at low price due to the amount of bargain in France , that French peoples doesn't, actually 78% of estates with historic interests in France are restored by thier citizens

[@TartarianTreasures]

Don't forget canadians! I am looking for one now - I am Irish, English, + Ukrainian my Irish clan had 18 CASTLES - O'cahan Earls of Derry rulers of N. Ireland till.1607

The truth is that the vast majority of chateaux in France are owned and cared for by French people. The skills and hardwork of their ancestors from all walks of life created these incredible places. It's also true that people from around the world who love French culture and history have come to this amazing country and are preserving and restoring many chateaux. Here at Chateau de Purnon, we have been welcomed warmly by the local community and we are using talented French artisans under the leadership of an incredible French architect to restore this wonderful estate. We have been generously supported by French taxpayers and from people around the world who share our love of saving the world's heritage. On this channel can we just celebrate the joy of this journey!

[@melissacoelho8413]

@@RaySqw785silly question are you French? I only as because the posters husband is. So I’m wondering as he lived and was born in France , I assume; which could be a mistake on my part. Were you born and raised in France? I’m not making assumptions about whether you are right or wrong, but would love to hear your thoughts on this as either a French person or if not how you came to this conclusion. Thank you in advance.

[@claireSE16]

I thought many of these grand houses got into trouble due to inheritance and tax laws . Still they are addictive viewing!

[@firstlast5068]

My thoughts may be a little different than most on here, whereas, I began to feel that Adelaide may have been a special needs person. Others have suggested that she was "sickly", but as the parent of an autistic adult child, I totally respect the need to have my daughter's bedroom right next to mine. As I watched the video, the feeling of parental closeness was reinforced when I learned that she was 29 when she passed in her bedroom. Death of sadness could indicate a suicide, being that her father was absent for so many years. My daughter is 20, will remain unwed, is intellectually about 5, and is the ceremonial Godmother of one of my friend's adopted children. My daughter Abby, was able to sign the church documents as well, and is a strong and well-loved figure in our community. Adelaide and Abby could be the same character in a play. History is mostly devoid of stories of special needs individuals. Bless you both for bringing Adelaide's story to the world. Thank you!

Many of the hypotheses being advanced here are plausible. We may never know. All we can do is speculate (respectfully) and continue our research for further clues. We're glad you found her story interesting.

[@09heidiwitt]

If it was suicide then possibly they were not allowed to bury her in family graveyard. The missing grave makes sense then. My name is adelheid.

[@mindymorgan8479]

I was thinking the same thing. Maybe she was a cheerful special lady who everyone loved? I sure hope so.

[@pamtueller4362]

If she passed away because of suicide and she was Catholic, her grave was most likely left unmarked.

[@standdownrobots_ihaveoldglory]

I am currently working on a project to gather oral histories of people with disabilities, and we now have the first large generation of special needs senior citizens. It was a privilege & honor to be part of documenting their stories in the nick of time. We’ve also expanded our collection of artifacts and can better tell the stories of people who became community leaders & success stories. One of my favorites was the woman who was barely verbal at 18, but could interview fine at 40, and had become a medaled athlete in the mainstream power lifting world, in addition to Special Olympics stardom! Thanks for the reminder to keep finding funding for this!

[@sarahmorgan9815]

I had tears of joy and sadness watching this beautiful tribute to Adelaide, especially your search through the cemetery. In the very early 1930s my grandmother Lillian left her home in Toorak never to return. In the 1940s my mother learned of her passing and so began her lifelong search for Lillian’s final resting place. In the 2000s her search came to an end, Lillian’s records were discovered and her grave was traced to the tiny country town of Bombala NSW. It wasn’t marked in any way much like Adelaide. Sadly my mother was never able to erect a headstone to honour her but whilst finalising her estate I stumbled across a draft she had written. In 2016 my siblings and cousins made the trip from Melbourne to Bombala and finished my mother’s dream. We had a small ceremony and spread some of my mother’s ashes. Mother and daughter reunited. ❤️

Thank you Sarah for sharing that wonderful story of your farewell to your Grandmother Lillian and your mother. May they both rest in peace knowing that, like Adelaide, there are people today who remember their lives even if they didn't know them..

[@Reneemfenn]

- ❤

[@BillyeFetrow-zx4dl]

😊😊

[@Nanadina51]

Do you think Adelaide was the Godmother-perhaps, just perhaps, she “knew” the miller? I know-scandalous. Pure conjecture. It was a great honor in those days to be a Godmother. ❤❤ ❤❤

[@debbieh5488]

Because so little is known of her, she becomes the most interesting of the family. She could never have imagined that centuries after her death thousands of people from around the world want to know her. We can only hope this would have brought her much happiness.

A wonderful expression of the sentiment that sent us on this journey! Thank you.

[@bfarm44]

Thank you for not letting Adelaide just vanish into the past. I am sure her spirit is at peace for your efforts

[@lydiarowe491]

The pursuing the archives was worth while..now knowing this history about Adelaide her memory is restored..

[@yolandagofigure]

Yes so ❤ touching.. it's truly unfortunate there's no picture of her. 😌

[@joyfuljraven]

I have a feeling they will find one of her as a young girl…

[@LoriF25403]

She may have been sickly from the onset, which may be why she was close to her parent's bedroom. Thank you so much for preserving the history and telling her story

Quite plausible... thanks for your message.

[@biche1835]

Il ne me semble pas logique qu'on l'ai choisie comme marraine d'une enfant si elle était elle-même malade.

[@biche1835]

L'hypothèse d'une enfant abandonnée à la naissance car conçue hors mariage mais dont la maman devient la marraine me parait plus plausible.

[@lisat9707]

This was my thought too also with the close access of her maid. Tucked away in the corner of the Chateau as well.

[@lisat9707]

Upon seeing her signature. It looks careful not flowing as much as I would expect from a personal signature. Makes me think she almost never signs her name but is well practiced in her letters

[@rowandowland1391]

Guys, thank you for telling Adelaide's story so beautifully. The most precious gift those who come before us leave is their memories. We feel Adelaide will be less sad today because of what you're doing. Crikey it will be such an emotional experience doing up her room. How amazing it is that the local Comune keeps hard copy files going back several hundred years on their bottom shelf.

[@WolvesinFrance]

We here en France keep EVERYTHING, min 19yrs actually ❤

Yes, quite right - the archival material here in France is an extraordinary resource that is helping us to uncover the history of the people who lived and worked at Purnon. We're thrilled that you enjoyed this episode.

[@didierjacob250]

toutes les mairies de France conservent depuis très longtemps tout les actes mariages décés les actes notariés, et puis il y a le cadastre, et puis les archives départementales...et nationales depuis le 14eme siècle....

[@erink4685]

A childless woman! I’m so glad you covered this beautiful and human story of a woman in history. How interesting the timing in the world, even though you can’t have planned it!

[@sylvanaire]

Makes you wonder if she had a cat, lol. 😂

We're thrilled that you found her story interesting.

[@pon1952leod]

I’m a childless woman…she may have been spared the expected burden of women🤷‍♀️

[@erink4685]

@@pon1952leod same. And maybe. Who knows. We’d have to get primary sources of information verify it but it makes you wonder at her life.

[@laurielaurie8280]

With each new discovery you bring a little more life back to the Chateau and you also bring back a respect and remembrance for those who once lived there. Its hard to believe that with so many centuries gone by that the Chateau and the history are still there to find. History is such an important thing. We should always try to protect history and pass it on through the generations. Every time I hear about anyone here in America destroying our history it is infuriating to me. History is a teacher to us all. I appreciate that you both have taken the time and efforts to uncover Chateau de Purnon's history and beauty. Looking forward to the next episode!

[@kimberlyearly8918]

I'm also in the US and every time I saw history being destroyed back in 2020 it broke my heart.

[@faeryvixenetc]

I dont know why, but hearing about Adelaide. Something tells me, the child named after her may have been HER child, out of wedlock.. and the death of a broken heart was because the child was taken to be raised by another family.

[@joswearingen3507]

Agreed. DNA testing of descendants could confirm

[@betty-loufraser5264]

And her dying from sadness (depression) might also explain why she had great sadness too.

[@alisonmary1443]

Possible and very likely.

[@cindland]

I tend to agree with this. Why would a wealthy landowner’s daughter become the godmother of a random villager’s daughter, of the same name?

[@myobacctsgirl]

This was my thought as well.

[@tiffinyanderson4403]

I’m American and grew up in a home built in 1862. As my parents renovated the home we found beautiful things and tbh heartbreaking items of our past. I’m enjoying watching your progress and bringing this home to life physically and historically.

[@kathyevans2968]

What a beautiful tribute to Adelaide. It makes you want to know even more now! I love how you named the wallpaper in her memory.

Thanks for your message. We will keep researching as each piece of information adds to the mosaic of the lives of the people who lived here.

[@lindafleming3907]

Beautiful wallpaper 👌

[@dale9706]

This is such a moving update. Amongst all there is needed to be done at the Chateau it would be so lovely to restore the graveyard memorials to the family. 🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️

[@carolranes91]

When my parents died I became obsessed with tracking their heritage all the way back to Europe It was an awesome treck going back even to finding my Dads family was Greek, they came from the Greeks that fled into the European mountains of Slovakia when the Muslims were invading Greece and slaughtering its population. Along the way I found many relatives that no one in the family knew about. They died young or like my grandfather had a twin brother who never married and died from injuries gotten during our Civil War. Anyway I made sure to add them to our family tree and posted them to the Heritage Tree apps. I found pictures and posted them too. I got lots of emails from family I didn’t know who thanked me for doing that because it brought them alive again! It was so much fun! Thanks for doing this because it brought her back to life.

[@hmeyers5114]

So many of our relatives from that part of the world died in internecine wars and battles. Many came from small villages, some no longer there, whose few records (church, city) were lost to war and fires. Unless people were landowners their stories were rarely otherwise recorded. And, of course, as I kind of suspect with Adelaide, if the child were born with a disability or incurred one at a young age, there would likely be even less of a record. I wonder about Adelaide as she stayed in the room near her parents her entire life and there is no major monument in the cemetery. She may have been kind but physically disabled; the godchild may have been named for her by someone who served her in the chateau and became close to her. 🤷‍♀ Lost in history are the stories of those born with disabilities or who lived with them as, mostly, these things were considered a shame, a family blight, or something to be ignored and not mentioned. Even recently, think of how often after WWI and WWII soldiers lived with horrible and disfiguring injuries which are seldom mentioned in our reading.

[@RockDove5212]

By "the Muslims " you mean the Ottomans.

[@hmeyers5114]

@@RockDove5212 THANK YUO! Correct!

[@carolranes91]

@@RockDove5212 yep

[@lindafleming3907]

@@hmeyers5114Or Adelaide could have been wildly spirited and needed to be kept an eye on so as not to get herself into trouble again.. 🤔

[@barbaragerrett8508]

It is commendable that you value the lives of the Purnon people ❣️You are an example to those of us still living to value our own history enough to look into those who have passed but also to value those who are still living. Thank you!

Thank you for your wonderful message. We hope that everyone following our journey can take joy from the rediscovering the lives of the people who lived here as well as the buildings themselves.

[@SouthernPioneer1965]

Love this , are we sure the child that she was the Godmother of wasn’t actually her daughter? So many times children born out of wedlock to certain ladies would have been hidden and those children adopted to a local family , to where the real mother became the godmother or a patron to that child . Not sure if you had this thought and looked into it. But definitely a thought .

[@kimberlysmith661]

That was my first thought also.

[@nicomyth]

It could explain the severe depression she suffered from and why she never married.

[@ludovica8221]

Youve been watching too much Downton Abbey

[@nicolad8822]

@@ludovica8221 ​​⁠​⁠​⁠ There was a something like it in Who Do you Think You Are programme. Frances de la Tour the actress I think, connected to Seaton Delaval House in north east England. The young woman had some curious hurried marriage then seemed to be consuming large amounts of laudanum before dying young. The drugs were shown in the household accounts.

[@tomjoad1363]

ONly ADN testing on some remains would tell us anything. Sadly i'm pretty sure after more than 200 years, nothing there to be tested.

[@ludovica8221]

This is my most favourite of all your videos. As a genealogist myself I am so drawn by the notion not only of conserving buildings, and preserving old things, but actually learning about the past and providing those things with breadth and depth of context extending beyond a modern day revision filtered through 21st century eyes, but digging into the lived reality of actual people who have slipped through the cracks and are lost to time. It is lovely to "meet" Adelaide. The women of history never get enough attention. I wonder why she did not marry, Dying young is less unusual. I am pretty ignorant of what records are available in France, so I am hoping you carry on looking. Perhaps there are wills somewhere that might mention her.More please!

[@RickFlood]

You both embark on my passion, the history and genealogy of those who lived before us. It is so important and hear-warming to honor and remember those that went before us.

[@lindagropp2965]

My passion also!

We're thrilled that people who love history and genealogy found this episode so interesting.

[@barbie5697]

I absolutely love watching your journey, learning the history of the chateau and her people. I have a cat rescue here in Ohio, USA … I shall name a beautiful kitten after Adelaide. ❤️

Thanks for your message. We're thrilled you're enjoying our journey. What a wonderful gesture!

[@deendrew36]

That is so sweet. ❤

[@brettkruempel244]

Poor dear Adelaide. I’m so glad you have brought this extraordinary story to light. More than anything else so far it personalizes the chateau and makes even more dear to me. I was especially touched to see the window she must have gazed out of countless times dreaming of a brighter future.

[@effie924]

I love when you delve into the history. You went to that graveyard and acually seen the old graves. I am amazed by the things you have found.

Thanks for your message - we're thrilled you enjoyed this episode.

[@CharLA_620]

Love history. I am the tenth child born to our parents and the only one who doesn’t have any children living.!Sometimes I do think I will probably be forgotten in years to come Then a great great niece will have to dig deep to find my story . It would be incredible if you came across a portrait of her. Thank you so very much for sharing with all of us.

Thank you for your message. Wonderful to think of your nieces or nephews rediscovering your story in future generations. Leave them something - a diary or some letters - a window into your personality so that they don't have to guess what you were like! We're thrilled you're following our journey.

[@deendrew36]

In this day and age, she won’t have to dig deep. Talk to her, leave her things that are part of your story.

[@standdownrobots_ihaveoldglory]

In my family, I know nothing about my great-aunts & uncles who had large families. I’ve even met them at least a dozen times. But we have a practice of telling our kids & grandkids about those who were childless. I never thought much about it, but I like that we do that - they were all very interesting people who did impactful things. When I tell my son about my father’s father, I always remind him about what Uncle Dwight, Auntie Fay, Aunt Katherine, Aunt Louise, & Aunt Alice did and what they stood for (very cause-driven family, big time Congregationalists). They’ll fade from memory like we all do, but not until their childful siblings lol! Auntie Fay passed before 1950, I never knew her, but she lives on in our lore. Also because my great grandfather had a wife, a sibling who served as his personal secretary, & only one child - why weren’t they richer lol??? But I’ve always been raised to treat childless aunts and uncles like grandparents.

[@mountbatten2222]

YOU TWO ARE A TRUE TREASURE - FOR FRANCE ! NO ONE OF THE FRENCH WAS INTERESTED IN THE HISTORY AND THE RESTAURATION OF THE CHATEAU; YOU HAD TO COME OVER FROM AUSTRALIA AND PUT ALL THIS EFFORT INTO IT !

[@RaySqw785]

Restauration of the castle? its Sodexo, lol as about no one in France was interested about Purnon? how do you know? because most don't waste thier time showing on Social medias? well, its not because alot foreigners buy estate at low price due to the amount of bargain in France , that French peoples doesn't, actually 78% of estates with historic interests in France are restored by thier citizens !

[@harrycover9180]

You don't know what you are talking about.

The truth is that the vast majority of chateaux in France are owned and cared for by French people. The skills and hardwork of their ancestors from all walks of life created these incredible places. It's also true that people from around the world who love French culture and history have come to this amazing country and are preserving and restoring many chateaux. Here at Chateau de Purnon, we have been welcomed warmly by the local community and we are using talented French artisans under the leadership of an incredible French architect to restore this wonderful estate. We have been generously supported by French taxpayers and from people around the world who share our love of saving the world's heritage. On this channel can we just celebrate the joy of this journey?!

[@BStrapper]

If your own country had 20 000 very old chateau like france many would be in total disarray and people would come from all around the world to save barely more than a few... Fyi the french government is paying half of the expenses for the restauration of that chateau and many others.

[@ChristianDominicWindsor]

THIS MAY BE TRURH; NEVERTHELESS THE TWO ARE PUTTING HUGE EFFORTS ; ALL THEIR SAVINGS ANDTHEIR LIVETIME INTO THE RESTORATION !

[@kyliemumby7881]

Amazing how the stories of the past are slowly revealing themselves Both sad & happy 🫶🏼

It's intriguing to unlock some of the mysteries of the past. There will always be questions unanswered. But each document provides a further hint or clue.

[@JamesSilva-k8d]

I love that you worked to put a life to a name of a child of the chateau! It really begins to bring to life the rooms of the chateau that housed so many lives! Fabulous!

[@nadia-i1l5h]

Loved this episode very much, an ode to the forgotten women 🌹

Exactly - we're thrilled you enjoyed it.

[@bluemoon1033]

You are my new favourite château channel. I have just binge watched your other episodes. I am enthralled. Thank you from fellow Aussies from Newcastle. I honestly can’t wait to see all your future developments. Could I please ask how do you keep so fit to have enough energy to complete physical work all day? Do you do gym workouts? Thank you. ✨🇦🇺

Thank you for your message and welcome to our KZbin Channel. No need to go to the gym here, we work every day on the restoration so the entire estate is a work-out regime!!

[@bernajohnson751]

How casually those precious archives are stored and handled! Made me a little anxious 🫣

[@BebeDaul]

That blew my mind!

[@Attingham]

Compelling. It underscores the reality that even living in vast , splendid surroundings sadness and despair may exist for some. I find the proximity of the parent’s shared bedchamber touching and loving. Thank you for this chapter!

Thank you for your message. A very perceptive insight.

[@glenpeters955]

A sad but beautiful story in many ways. It is sad to think that she may have been lost like so many people, hopefully now, in a small way, she will be remembered.

[@soniagallaher3544]

So interesting to find out the history of your chateau. I also find it sad when there are unmarked graves and to hear she died of ‘sadness’. Beautiful wallpaper!

Thanks for your message. We're thrilled that you found this episode interesting.

[@TuthRuka66]

This is an amazing block of information. Your production value is perfection. You clearly put a lot of work into this and it shows. By this time, I am fully invested in every new video that pops up. Thank you so much for your dedication and desire to share your journey with us.

Thanks for your message. We're thrilled that you're enjoying our journey!

[@clarefoskett9959]

This is so interesting. Adelaide is coming to life in history. Thank you for sharing her story with us.

Wonderful that you found her story as fascinating as we did!

[@clarefoskett9959]

I feel quite emotional about this place. It's very special because of the history. Real people...

[@suzyq555]

I love how you are not frilly as you go about your day Felicity. ❤❤❤❤

Always dressed in Hard Yakka! Frilly wouldn't really work here at the chateau at the moment! Thanks for your message.

[@sylvanaire]

I noticed that, too. So many of the channels I watch, the people are wearing flimsy sandals, when they should have steel toe boots on for the activities they’re undertaking, lol.

[@PatriciaS-u4d]

I think at some point you are going to have to get yourself a gown that matches the historical period of Purnon!

[@SunShine-p4o]

Thank you so much for naming a wall paper after Adelaide so her name stays alive and linked to Château Purnon. When I heard that Adelaide A. was the godmother of another little girl named Adelaide I had the impression that she was not the godmother but the mother of this little girl and because Adelaide A. was unmarried, Adelaide junior couldn't stay at the Château with her mother but had to grow up in a family that was not too far from the Château. It could also explain why she died of sadness. Just my intuition

An intriguing and plausible possibility. Thanks for your message and for following our journey.

[@tgm2754]

Agree. Common to keep them near but raised in town by trusted family. Titled men who produced “ children on top of the sheets” often paid to have said child raised in girls schools. The gentlemen chose not to know or acknowledge child but “ took responsibility “ and financially supported child.

[@amandaparkeradams7965]

Maybe she had postpartum depression, hence she died of sadness.

[@ramonasmith257]

Very possible

[@deborahmoritz9803]

I agree. I thought the same exact thing, that Adelaide's god daughter was in fact Adelaide's own daughter. Perhaps Adelaide wanted so very much to get her daughter back and her parents would not allow it....perhaps there were attempts. It's possible the exposure of an illegitimate birth prompted Adelaide's parents to imprison her. Could a scenario such as this have caused Adelaide to take her own life? If this is the case, I hope they are reunited in the afterlife.

[@jennyeddison]

As a fellow Aussie, I see you both as ambassadors to France. So many people have the stereotypical view of Aussies being these brash, uncultured okker type characters. You both go a long way to kill that stereotype and are bringing to us not only some great building and reno footage, but stories of the people, history of architecture, the growth of a nation and some of the most pleasant, easy to watch KZbin footage online. Great job guys! Go Aussie!

Thank you for your message. The relationship between Australians and the French people is a strong and close one. If, through our project here, we can strengthen it a little more, we would be thrilled.

[@1961Lara]

I am American and I don’t know anyone who thinks of the Australians that way! I think of you as adventurous and strong!

[@nanoyabarrett8852]

I agree

[@pearl313]

@@1961Lara and brave - all those spiders and snakes! Yikes! 😂

[@1961Lara]

@ no way !!!! Yikes!!!

[@cathleen6104]

This is such a good Chateau restoration site. Purnon, with its spectacular main house, encompasses the most fascinating family history, historic landscape, and restoration projects I've seen. Excellent music, presentation, and dedication. Well done.

[@tracypeters7027]

Thank you for sharing your discoveries about Adelaide and all the hard work you put into tracking down information about her. As a woman, I'm glad she is not forgotten or relegated to being unimportant. She was a daughter and a sister, and given the time she lived in, subject always to others' authority, with expectations regarding her life and what she could or could not do.

Exactly. And now she is no longer forgotten. Thanks for your message.

[@stephaniegaromon3244]

Thank you for telling the story of Adelaide so beautifully. I have so much respect for you taking such care and sensitivity in discovering the stories of the past as you bring life back into the chateau. You aren’t doing the renovations to just get it done, you are painstakingly uncovering clues and pieces of the lives and decorations from centuries before. It’s sad that time wears off the markings on a tombstone, but fortunate that the handwritten records are still preserved. There is so much we can learn from history so thank you for your efforts in preserving Purnon. ❤

Thank you for your message. You're quite right - if we just take the time to stop, investigate, to look and listen, often the clues are all around us.

[@lisakilmer2667]

A tale well told! I suspect there were hundreds of thousands of women like Adelaide. It occurred to me the other day that the prevalence of the boudoir as the "sulking room" is a strong clue to how unhappy many women were. The fact that they needed a private space to hide their emotions is very telling, indeed.

[@claireSE16]

Ah ha! Maybe that’s behind the Farrow and Ball colour called Sulking Room Pink !

[@jenh9361]

​@@claireSE16Hummm... could be?

[@lindafleming3907]

It’s also the room to practice your pouting, attitude, demeanour, your mood. Also to socialise with, and entertain, your intimate friends.

[@eureka1148]

Glad you could piece together some history for Adelaide. It is, as you say, that unmarried women fail to be documented because they were usually only recognised by the men they married or the children they had. Now she has a story.

Exactly. We're thrilled you enjoyed seeing her some of her story come back life. Thanks for your message.

[@MsMesem]

That attitude persists today. I live it.

[@sarahwales6276]

​@MsMesem That's sad you experience that reality, I don't at all .

[@globalunity4249]

It's so interesting when investigating history like this to include family trees. Little pieces of the puzzle for such a grand chateau.

[@a.p.5906]

I just subscribed and will tune in often. I'm an American living in France with my wife who is French from Lyon. I have a interest in Chateaus, History in general and my French ancestry that has been traced back to 836AD. Thank you for sharing your passion and the story of Adelaide. Take care, be safe 🙏

Welcome to our journey saving Chateau de Purnon. Thanks for your message.

[@cher128bx]

I have happily watched every video that you have made, every one is a treasure however, this particular video was, beyond measure, the most memorable. Thank you both for ensuring that Adelaide will no longer be lost to time and the life she lived would not have been lived in vain and, as providence would have it, her life would be so esteemed, so treasured, two hundred fifty six years in the future.

Thank you for your wonderful message. We're thrilled that you are following our adventure!

[@clarefoskett9959]

Oh, I love this ❤

Thrilled you enjoyed this episode!

[@gordonulrickson3626]

You are doing a truly magnificent job of bringing the chateau back to life. Your attention to preserving all the historic details and history is wonderful. How interesting to discover the lives of the family. I am amazed that the graves are so plain and relatively simple for the family of such a prominent home.

[@laurentbeaulieu4443]

What wonderful work you do at Purnon not just restoring a building but also uncovering the details of the family who lived there. The story of Adelaide is very touching and it is nice to visit the cemetery, though the graves are in a state of abandon. The people and their history also make a house and as a follower of Purnon, I truly enjoyed your post. Thank you.

Thank you for your message. We're thrilled you enjoyed this episode.

[@CenturyHomeProject]

It’s wonderful that with the restoration of the château that you are bringing the family that built it back to life for those of us around the world to enjoy. You’re not just resurrecting the château. You were resurrecting the family that built it. That’s a beautiful thing.

Thanks for your message - we're thrilled you enjoyed this episode.

[@Jen-eo1fh]

I am enjoying following the story of Purnon as well as watching the restoration of this beautiful chateau. Thank you for sharing. 🇦🇺

Thank you for following our journey! We're thrilled you are enjoying the restoration and the history.

[@otherworlder1]

From our past we construct our future. And we can see in so many cases, people have just been living their lives, building for something sustaining. Thank you for taking this next step to uncovering the actual history.

[@jampuppy]

Wow What a sad story. Still, it’s great to fill in some of the blanks. I imagine unravelling the mysteries associated with Chateau de Purnon will be on-going. I look forward to hearing more stories.

Thank you for your message. We look forward to sharing more of the stories of the people who lived and worked here.

[@travlng2]

There are so many wonderful stories and memories we can find about our families when we just take the time. I am glad you took the time to find out about Adelaide. You and Tim are a wonderful addition to the Chateau de Purnon family.

Thanks for your message. We're thrilled you enjoyed this episode.

[@MadonnaMead]

Adelaide will be thrilled on the restoration of her room! Such a shame we will never know the full details of her life. The history of the Chateau is beyond fascinating.

[@melissaeden1219]

Thank you for telling Adelaide's moving story and honoring the lives of women who might have been forgotten! Great detective work!I loved seeing the beautiful handwriting in all of the old documents. You're bringing Purnon back to life for your community as well--the building, but also the people. It was clear that the folks in the mayor's office were intrigued by the search and enjoyed making the discoveries with you.

[@MishaGish]

What a wonderful romantic addition to reawakening Chateau Purnon by seeking the lives of those who laughed and cried in this magnificent home! We live for Sundays edition of your adventure! Is there a second book coming?? ❤️👏👏👏👏

[@trajanparker]

Outstanding. As always!

Thank you! We're thrilled you enjoyed this piece of the chateau's history!

[@butwereallsombdyspecial]

This is so amazing it gives me chills and tears of joy. How import these lives from the past are. Beautiful historic cemetery

Thanks for your message - we're thrilled you enjoyed this episode.

[@louiselewis5061]

How wonderful that you have uncovered a little of Adelaide’s story. It’s so interesting and poignant. I hope there will be more to come. My imagination is full of possible scenarios of Adelaide. Look forward to your video every week.

[@carolinetaiano7151]

Beautifully researched and presented as ever. Adelaide is such a fitting name for a previous inhabitant of the magnificent Purnon which is now being saved by two very hardworking Australians. ❤

[@ellenmadsen7308]

Love that you do biographies of the people who lived at the chateau. The house is so much more than its physical makeup. This is how history comes alive. Thanks.

We're thrilled you learning a little of Adelaide's life.

[@alisonmary1443]

Wow! This is no ordinary renovation, how refreshing. Thank you.

Thank you! We're thrilled you found Adelaide's story interesting.

[@darrellbrand1074]

I hope this cemetery gets restored to its former glory to so these people will always be remembered properly throughout history and time

[@rosemariedeschenes7013]

What an interesting and sad story of one of the chateau owners. Thank you for sharing this part of history 😍😘

Our pleasure - we're thrilled you found this episode as interesting as we did researching it!

[@JanetteS-n4k]

it´s wonderful to see that you show the old lady with all her facettes. thank you!🤗

Thanks for your message.

[@thatswhatilike_]

Absolutely loved hearing about Adelaide and her life in the chateau. Did you manage to find out where she’s buried? It’s amazing to think of the history and if those walls could talk. The stories they could tell you. ❤ that chateau was just waiting for you both to buy it and save it. The fact that you even took the time when you’re both so busy to research Adelaide is a testament to the fact that the chateau is in very very safe hands. Xx

[@michiperkins144]

Thank you for sharing precious Adelaide with us ❤

We're thrilled you enjoyed this episode.

[@ManWhoLovesTheMary]

The number of stories associated with this place must be numerous and full of powerful relatable and insightful. I pray that one day a Purnon Abby, of sorts, will be created by the Hollywood of France or Britain…or Hollywood itself to really make it come to life for the general public - as long as it doesn’t exploit the stories. They’re just so inspiring and so is your recording of them. This investigation goes to show that everything can be solved with some determination and research in order to find the right resources.

[@lmfarms4611]

Those records are so important! I hope that someone can copy them for future generations. I love the hand writing it is so beautiful. With all of the computers this type of writing is lost.

We are creating a fabulous archive here to safeguard the history that we are uncovering.

[@victoriavillegas5]

So well presented a very sad story of a young woman that couldn’t found her place on the newborn Republic of France. No doubt she found peace near our Creator.

We hope she is at peace.

[@gailamir1401]

And this is why we watch. For the history. Thank you for sharing your good fortune with us. Very generous.

We're glad you enjoyed this episode.

[@chantalnash5615]

Superb, as always !

Thank you! We're thrilled you enjoyed this episode.

[@estefan93eh]

So happy you research and give her the place she deserves in her home. I’m from Mexico and we do have a very particular way to see dead and we believe that a person die when it’s forgotten. So I feel that she is more alive than ever. Thank you for sharing your story too!

Thank you for your perspective from your culture. We're thrilled you're following our journey.

[@Omalie62]

So sad... my take on Adelaide is that she fell, preferable, in love and with child but... and that she is not the Godmother but actually the mother of the child in the village... She did die of sadness... no love, no child... Thank you for going back in time and rescue Adelaide from being forgotten... I am looking forward to find out more about the lifes of the Château's occupants.

[@dawnbarnes8729]

That was my take also! It makes much more sense. Saddled with a child at a young child, but not allowed to marry the father, because of his lack of status. I can only imagine her sadness. 😢

[@rosepayeur4591]

Would be nice to know what happened to the child ?!

An interesting and plausible hypothesis. Thanks everyone for your messages.

[@SuziSellsSound]

I wondered the same and I'm full of questions. Curious about how Adelaide came to be the child's Godmother and namesake. Is it a story of kindness, tragedy, unrequited love? Was Adelaide unlikely to be a mother so found solace in being Godmother? I hope you look into the genealogy of the child, Adelaide. 🌷 I enjoyed this video. Thank you!

[@vkay4086]

I agree with you. When I heard that Adelaide gave her name to a child in the village my mind went straight away to such a scenario as you have posed. I would like to see the child Adelaide’s birth certificate, baptism and possibly marriage. I wonder if they could find little girls descendants. It would be a great story that a person out there may be connected to. Cheers Vicki from Australia

[@artmichel5572]

This is beautiful and professional story telling. Thank you two for sharing your adventures. From the USA here, I wanted to say that I watch (very intently) your story here on KZbin. I can't help but wonder what life may have been like..then..there. Just beautiful! I especially locked in to the diaries because I love the penmanship. The script(s) used by educated people back then is absolutely gorgeous. Can't wait for the next episode.

Thanks for your message. We're thrilled you're enjoying our journey.

[@dictionary310]

I wonder if walking into Adelaide’s bedroom feels different since you’ve brought her history back to life? It’s a haunting story, thank you for sharing it. A copy of Chateau Reawakening arrived here in Toronto by Amazon a couple of days ago, it’s brilliant! It fills in a lot of gaps. It would be difficult to choose a favourite photograph, but if I had to, besides page 129 of course (so adorable) it’s page 181. Very beautiful. Buy the book!

Thanks for your message. Each room evolves as we come to understand the stories that touch them. Thank you so much for purchasing our book - we love the photo of Truffe... and yes, the dappled light coming through the window into our vestibule is special.

[@marysaracini-ok4md]

Learning about Adelaide and more about Chateau de Purnon is a real treat. Thank you for taking the time to uncover the heartbeat of this beautiful family home. I love the historical aspects as much as the design projects!

Thank you for your message - we're thrilled you enjoyed this episode.

[@vintagemoss9578]

So interesting. Thank you for sharing.

Our pleasure - we're thrilled you enjoyed it.

[@michelleb6409]

Another amazing episode. I love to see and hear the history of the chateau and all that lived and worked in it. Looking forward to finding out more!

Thanks for your message. We're thrilled you are fascinated by the history as well as the restoration.

[@lisahelm9016]

Perfect penmanship.

Isn't it exquisite?!

[@lisahelm9016]

Yes, that is the word that best describes it. Thank you for sharing.

[@jlhenderson2]

Thanks for unraveling and sharing the fascinating mystery of the Adelaide de la Haye. Your sleuthing has made me more aware of Chateau de Purnon as a home and not just a collection of impressive buildings.

Thank you! Exactly the sentiment we wished to convey. We're thrilled you enjoyed this episode.

[@Regsfoto]

Another wonderful and interesting episode in the life of Chateau Pernon! We like to think only of the good times that happened at such places but tragedies are also part of the story a well. Listening to what was said about Adelaide, and its true there's very, very little that is known, at least so far she seems to have for many years suffered from "sadness" which today we might describe as depression and likely of a level that one might be prescribed medications for. It makes me wonder if her demise, well, to be as sensitive as possible, might have been by her own hand. This is only a complete speculation of course, and there are many other possibilities, we have no idea, however the thing that stands out to me is the record states that she died of "sadness" and not some other illness or accident. Of course no one wants to think this, we want Pernon to be a happy joyous place where everything was wondrous all the time and any pain, sadness or tragedy were things that happened elsewhere, like Edouard's demise. However Pernon is above all a human place and so is its story. Who really knows, but thats what makes Chateau Pernon's story, which is the story of it's inhabitants so compelling.

Thanks for your message. Yes, it's possible that she struggled with her mental health in an era where these issues were poorly understood. And, you're quite right that we mustn't romanticise chateau life by pretending that the people who lived here din't struggle with all the personal issues that afflict people everywhere from all walks of life.

[@patdavis9804]

This was the very first episode I've seen of this channel. I will be subscribing from Arizona USA. Your kindness and respect for the unliving has earned you a soft in my heart. Thank you so kindly for not forgetting about that sweet young woman.❤

Welcome to our KZbin channel and to our adventure saving and restoring the wonderful Chateau de Purnon. For us, restoring the buildings is only part of our journey. Rediscovering the lives of the people who lived and worked here over the last two and half centuries is also important. We are thrilled that this quest has drawn you to our project.

[@dominique8233]

Those records need to be digitally preserved. In the event of an accident they would be lost. They are sitting on a bottom shelf in an unprotected environment.

Like all births, deaths and marriage records in France they have been digitally preserved.

[@zipper674]

How thoughtful of the Mayor to be involved. Very nice indeed. Wonderful stories and History. Thank you all.

We're thrilled you enjoyed this episode.

[@jeanhawken4482]

I cannot imagine such a scary time in history. An amazing time.

Yes, the French Revolution was a tumultuous time. No one who lived through it was left unchanged.

[@barbaraaddis4011]

Just found your site. Love the restoration of such a beautiful place. Maybe you could do something to restore the grave markers and compile all the history you’ve been able to accumulate in honor of the family who built your new home. That they built with so much love, hopes and dreams, which sadly was marred with so much sadness and misfortune. This way your future generations will also be able to look back and find it easier to trace and appreciate the complete history of their home. May your family have a much more blessed experience with what has now become your families legacy and inheritance. Love old home, large or small especially with the historical information. 😊 Blessings to you from SC USA

[@patricefox8672]

I wonder if her sadness led her to take her own life...her maid must have suffered for her entire life after the discovering of her mistress... Thank you for sharing this story and the time invested to bring it to this community that follows your journey...not only the restoration of stone but of the people who inhabited this magnificent dwelling...❤

[@eXcludeyStarling]

This is actually exactly what I was thinking that “sadness” means. Most families would have viewed self harm as a huge shame on their family. I’m thinking she got pregnant out of wedlock and her child was taken away. She took her own life and I’m sure there were rumors. The family was probably embarrassed and tried to erase her from their history which is horrific and cruel.

[@eXcludeyStarling]

In fact I’m wondering if her room was so close to her parent’s room because maybe she had attempted before.

[@peccant]

From my understanding, suicide might also explain the reluctance to name the occupant of grave 82 - Under such a scenario, I believe that normally the church would have insisted that she be buried on unconsecrated ground.

[@09heidiwitt]

​@@peccantexactly. I thought the same

[@johngraham8794]

What a lovely to remember Adelaide by naming one of the beautiful Farrow and Ball wall papers in her memory

It seems fitting that the design found in her dressing room now bears her name.

[@AsoSnT]

Très intéressant ! keep it up !

Thank you!

[@kimberlyearly8918]

As someone who has struggled with depression most of my life it's really sad to know that Adelaide was crying and sad all the time. And, back then, there wasn't help like we have today. Thank you for sharing her story with us.

We're glad you found this episode about Adelaide's life interesting. We may never know the circumstances of her life and passing but we're happy that you draw some comfort this video. Best wishes and thank you for following our journey.

[@robbiemoriarty7499]

Sadly Adelaide’s final resting place is unmarked? Interesting that her bedroom ceiling was lower so a maids room could be attached above.

[@ravenred201]

i love learning the history of your magnificant piece of property. Don't you wish walls could talk? fascinating. Bless you both for saving this treasure.

We often say that Chateau de Purnon is whispering to us through the centuries and if we lean in and listen carefully we can hear her. She has many things to tell us about how we can learn from the past. Thank you for following our journey!

[@user-vy6or2zr6r]

Very interesting video. Would love to know what happened to Adelaide. Perhaps she had a boyfriend who died in the revolution which made her sad. So many things to think about. Thankyou

[@kathyacemoi]

je pense comme vous. c'est une possibilité , un militaire peut-être comme son père et ses frères ou un proche de la monarchie.

All of these are plausible explanations for her apparent sadness. Thanks for following our journey.

[@angelamalcomb1373]

Wow , thank you for bringing Adelaide’s story to the light

Thank you for your message. We're thrilled you enjoyed her story.

[@lizkuisma238]

I wonder if Adelaide had a disability. This may explain the position of her bedroom so close to her parents.

That's a plausible explanation.

[@truthseeker-mk4rt]

So wonderful to learn the history of this lovely Chateau. Maybe dedicate a garden to her called The Adelaide Garden.

[@lindaallen9721]

What if the little girl that Adelaide was the godmother of was actually Adelaide’s child out of wedlock that she could not claim? That would make someone horribly depressed.

Thanks for your message - a plausible explanation.

[@andrebordeaux5700]

What a wonderful story of a life that might have slipped into obscurity if it were not for your efforts. Thank you and congratulations.

You're welcome. We're thrilled you enjoyed this episode.

[@TheSecretChateau]

Hello Australiens, find out the history of the god child Adelaide. There could be more information there. Regarding her godmother, died of sadness could mean suicide, very sad. She is a beauty, your Purnon. Regards from another château in Normandie. ❤

[@j_stuchbury2123]

If "sadness" meant suicide she may have been denied last rites and a church sanctioned burial. Maybe that is why no record exists.

[@kittycatgraham]

Maybe she was the mother not the godmother. 😢

These are all plausible explanations. Thanks for your messages.

[@treenaspencer3710]

So very interesting, thank you for taking the time to investigate this lady.😊

Thanks for your message - we're thrilled you enjoyed this episode.