CASTLE MAKEOVER!

Want to see exclusive videos & help support our content? / hopwoodxiv
To order my book DOWNTON SHABBY: www.HopwoodXIV.com
For more info on the project: www.HopwoodXIV.com
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WELCOME to Hopwood Hall Estate (AKA "Downton Shabby") in Middleton, England.
This channel follows the unexpected adventures of American Hopwood DePree who, whilst living in Los Angeles, traced his family tree online, and discovered his abandoned 60-room ancestral home "Hopwood Hall Estate" that dates back to 1426! Hopwood was informed that if he didn't do something very soon to save the Hall, it would be lost forever. So he packed his bags and left LA to take on the madcap challenge of his life with a passionate team of supporters and community volunteers, in England.
We share the ups & downs, failures & triumphs of this group effort DIY rescue emergency: learning new skills, discovering house & garden secrets and seeking the inspirations that will be needed to get this Estate back onto her feet once again!
Thank you to all our Patreons, Friends and Supporters who have decided to come along on the ride with us as we transform this irreplaceable British treasure back to her original grandeur! It may take us some time, but we embrace it, as the fun is in the process!! We hope you agree and that you will gain as much from watching the journey as we are experiencing it - and do feel free to contact us via the comments section below.
If you would like to become a Patreon of this channel and receive exclusive perks and content, we'll be delighted - please click here: / hopwoodxiv

[@rosalynliddle1353]

What really touches me is that the Hall has gone from a bustling,hive of activity to total silence for so long...and now,thanks to you Hopwood DePree,the Hall is once again bustling with life and is loved once more...just as it has always been.Proud to be a part of this as a volunteer.

[@HopwoodXIV]

😀🥰

[@Django44]

Well said. He really has done - and is doing - a remarkable job. That so many volunteers have come together is testament to his good spirits, dedication and determination to see the job through. Hats off to Hopwood from Canada.

[@TimFrentz]

​@@HopwoodXIVI'm confused by your name? Why is your first name listed as Hopwood instead of your surname? Is Depree a stage name or something?

[@RamblinAround]

It's great to see how the community is coming together to help you on your mission. It's inspiring to see!

[@HopwoodXIV]

😀 Thank you so much!

[@BmaGrl]

I just LOVE how the community has embraced you & have all pitched in to help you with the renovation, like it's restoration is part of their restoration, too. It is difficult for Americans to understand how the life of a village, like Middleton, Castleton, & Hopwood has historically been so tied into the prosperity of the nearby manor houses. A truly symbiotic relationship.

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thanks Marnie! Yes the amazing support of the community has been incredibly inspiring in keeping me going!

[@Jackass9598]

Through personal taste, i came upon this channel and i am AMAZED by the dedication of Hopwood and the local community to return this building to its former glory! I am immersed in this project

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you! Great to know you are watching!

[@Jackass9598]

If I could, I'd fly over, get involved some kinda way, and help as much as possible.

[@HopwoodXIV]

cheers @@Jackass9598 perhaps at some point you could visit and try out one of our workshops

[@LindaMarci]

Brilliant again! You'll go down in history as a local legend, joining a long line of illustrious movers and shakers who made a difference in Manchester, supported by an army of willing hands and hearts🎉🎉🎉

[@HopwoodXIV]

Haha thanks so much! It truly is a pleasure to work alongside so many passionate and dedicated people!!

[@obrienqwerty]

You are such an inspiration, a can-do sort who just gets on with climbing the mountain. British to the core...twice removed.

[@HopwoodXIV]

😀❤Thank you!! 😀

[@chriscraver4070]

You are one special person to take on this massive project. Have been watching since you started the resurrection of this amazing project. Seeing so many locals so willing to help you is so beautiful. Much love to you all❤

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you Chris! 😀 ❤

[@DemelzaBoing]

You and your team are simply amazing, Hopwood. You all work so hard to not only lovingly restore Hopwood Hall, but to bring us these wonderful videos, so that we can all share in the joyful process. Thank you so much. 😊

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you thats so lovely to know 😀🥰❤

[@ourfloridagarden4191]

The garden club are miracle workers.

[@HopwoodXIV]

They are amazing! 😀

[@susanfurner1988]

Oh Hop wood , you are so blessed to be surrounded by such lovely people in your community !!! They are just so wonderful !!! I can't imagine getting to work in such a positive situation . You truly are blessed . 💖

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thanks Susan! Yes they are amazing! 😀!

[@MsCairo69]

Bless everyone who donates and the volunteers. And wow! What a job the Gardening Club done!!

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thanks- yes it is such an amazing feeling to have so many great people helping the project along the way!!

[@janelangford-il5im]

Congratulations on the progress! It’s wonderful to see the community volunteers! Hello from Georgia USA 🍑 🇺🇸

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you Jane!!

[@kathyevans2968]

I feel like all the volunteers come in and enjoy your uplifting energy and sense of humour, which is why you have such a good team! Congratulations Hopwood, on all your and your team’s hard work on this worthy restoration. I hope just as much good will and enthusiasm comes back to keep you buoyant. It appears monumental, but hopefully just as rewarding!

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you Kathy!

[@yourfunsister]

What an amazing community gathering. I absolutely love this channel.

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you so much! Great to have you along on the journey with us!

[@LorraineGoodrich-c4j]

This entire story is nearly unbelievable! Your determination and tenacity is incredible. I traveled from the U.S. a few years back to visit and went to see Goodrich castle which was once an ancestral castle in our family. Its nothing but ruins and a tourist spot now. It was a sad feeling to walk its ground and imagine what it once was and meant to generations. Your story does a heart good!

[@HopwoodXIV]

❤❤❤

[@susandelongis885]

So happy to have found your fascinating channel! Astonished that so much destruction could happen in 40 yrs. Best success to all of you in your restoration of this magnificent building. I’m an American too and love British history. The combination of that with your great American energy and humor is fantastic!

[@aiwi9498]

Thank you for taking on all the hard work and financial needs to save your historic family estate with amazing community support ❤❤❤

[@LFH55]

So much has been accomplished by everyone who worked restoring Hopwood Hall to it's present condition. I remember the early videos with no roof in areas and the Hall was not secure from the elements. Now to see all the improvements, it is amazing and shows what can be accomplished with a lot of hard work and a vision. Everyone deserves a big round of applause. I cannot wait to see what the future holds. I enjoy these videos very much.

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you so much! 😀

[@RADIO-FREE-AMERICA]

Those swallows are a sign from our Lord God most High! It is a sign and a blessing that Hopwood Hall restorations will be a success! All the best to everyone involved in the continuing restoration endeavors for Hopwood Hall! Thomas

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thanks Thomas! That is great to hear!

[@conemadam]

How gratifying for you and the wonderful team that is slowly bringing Hopwood Hall back to life! I love these videos and you always amaze me! Bravo!

[@HopwoodXIV]

😀 Thank you so much!! 😀 We really appreciate you watching and your kind words!

[@LeannaRuthJensen]

It is the dawn of a new era to have a class being taught in the hall. Very inspiring.

[@HopwoodXIV]

😀😀

[@helencantimagine]

Inspiring Hopwood. I live in Tennessee, USA. If I lived close, I would want to help in the archives. Loving the videos, and your dedication.

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you Helen! Hello to Tennessee! ❤

[@lisakilmer2667]

I've just found your channel. The story of a community working to save an ancient building is unusual and uplifting. I'd like to request that you film the rooms by standing still and very slowly panning around, so we viewers can see them more clearly. You've got a compelling story!

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thanks Lisa! Great to know you're watching! Have you had a chance to check out our VR tour?

[@librarynan4610]

You have great volunteers. The gardening group does amazing work. Maybe next year they can establish a kitchen garden.

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you! Yes they are amazing! That would be an amazing goal!

[@cherylmcnair5594]

Wonderful to see the massive progress you’ve all made and the delight on everyone’s face at this auspicious event 😊

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you Cheryl!

[@pinkpugs3337]

Amazing all the hard work ,all the volunteers !!! Loved the fruit trees !!! So wish to be a part of this !!!

[@HopwoodXIV]

Fantastic to have you along with us on the adventure! 😀

[@happygrandma5637]

A truly wonderful community. Their faith that something that would happen and the care that they were able to undertake before Hopwood became involved is truly amazing. It just goes to show that you can make a difference. Thanks so much to each and every one of the volunteers, the city council and Hopwood. I'm hoping to see window glass being installed in future episodes.

[@HopwoodXIV]

❤❤❤

[@LC-bb6jd]

What a hard working crew! The gardens are beautiful!

[@HopwoodXIV]

😀❤

[@LisaHopwood-e4s]

Hey Hopwood, how wonderful is this?! You’re so lucky to have such a trusty & faithful band of volunteers, they’re doing such a great job. It’s fantastic to see the students using the space too, as you say it’s starting to become a real ‘hub’ for the community. Love it ❤️🎉🥰

[@badassat69]

Very impressive throughout but one thing really hit my imagination: The "500 years later..." And Hopwood spontaneously displayed the absolute heartfelt smile to acknowledge that very moment.

[@HopwoodXIV]

😀

[@Django44]

That was especially moving. With thanks to councillor Neil Emmott who pointed this out.

[@kathsmith4924]

hopwood hall has such a dedicated team 👏🏼👏🏼 as for cat litter that made me laugh 😹

[@HopwoodXIV]

Haha cheers Kath! Yes they are an amazing team!!

[@aok2727]

How incredible that this event has brought out such experience and vision. There is a real joy in seeing these people come together for a common goal

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you!!

[@dcallan812]

All the rain came in handy for the grass. Great video 2x👍

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you! Yes agreed haha!

[@andrewgill2561]

I'll bet that was a hell of a culture shock moving from LA to rainy Manchester, but looking at LA now I think you made the rich decision. 🤔😜, you've been in UK a while now, can you spell tyre the correct way? 😅

[@HopwoodXIV]

😅 Haha Andrew it still stops me occasionally as a typo when I see it but I'm definitely getting used to using an S rather than Z

[@jenlis527]

The Native Americans taught that to the pilgrims - that growing things with FISH is a fertilizer.

[@HopwoodXIV]

The trees are growing so well it seems like a great way to do it!

[@newtquestgames]

You deserve the keys to Manchester for what you're doing with Hopwood Hall! Incredible

[@HopwoodXIV]

Haha cheers- thank you so much. I couldn't do it without so many helping hands!! 😀

[@newtquestgames]

@@HopwoodXIV Yes but what a leader you are!

[@HopwoodXIV]

@@newtquestgames Thank you that's very kind of you to say. I really appreciate the encouragement!

[@carolwilder2289]

I have been follow your channel and find it so majestic & fascinating!❤

[@marinaroper6922]

It’s looking great! Congratulations 🎉 Those volunteers are wonderfully great. 💕

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you!!

[@lucym6299]

Well done everyone. Amazing work ❤

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thanks Lucy!

[@mswinslow2396]

Another Michigander with close ties to my ancestral country !

[@BryanMecklenburg]

WOW! You have such great volunteers. It is amazing how much you all are accomplishing. I wish I could be there to help. Since I enjoy landscaping, I am especially impressed with how far the grounds have come. I wonder if local youth could get involved in those projects as vocational training? The skills they would learn improving the Hopwood grounds could help them with future job opportunities. Great work! Bryan from Hudsonville, Michigan.

[@napili00]

"People. People who need people. Are the luckiest people in the world." Richard

[@HopwoodXIV]

😀❤

[@connievanlewe7762]

The way you present this vlog you can see that Hopwood Estate is close to your hart👍

[@HopwoodXIV]

Haha yes it definitely is. Thanks Connie! 😀❤

[@beckenhamrainbow5284]

Known about this for a while and just read the book. A lovely light and humourous read about a heavy duty project. I'll continue to follow this with interest.

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you! Fabulous to know you are along with us on the journey! 😀❤

[@RealSalica]

You are really lucky to get so much help . Community is a word that is disappearing in Canada ....

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you! Yes I do feel truly blessed to work with so many incredibly dedicated people!

[@chrisbeckstrom6182]

Wow, you had Phil Harding from Time Team at the hall! Legendary!

[@LindaMarci]

I was wondering who it was too but thought that other legend, Ian Miller from GMAAS. Hard to say for sure! 😊

[@nelleg152]

Great team work. Congratulations all❤

[@HopwoodXIV]

❤❤

[@Siansonea]

That white door to the courtyard with the oval window looks so jarringly out of place. I know there's a lot to do, but it will be a special day when that door is replaced with something more era-appropriate.

[@HopwoodXIV]

Haha yes agreed!

[@swoondrones]

The construction team should have left it in much better condition. That's absolutely atrocious and extremely unprofessional.

[@HopwoodXIV]

Hi they were part of solving the problem. It had rained for days which caused the problem. Unfortunately this sort of unexpected issue is part of the ups & downs of construction but the great news is that through it we are getting much closer to a restored Hall! 😀

[@jeanburgin160]

Wow, I can't wait to see all that you have done! Nice to see the donations and I hope some of the original pieces return to the Hall. Wow that is awesomely beautiful!

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you Jean!!

[@KylaA5952]

I finally figured out who you remind me of, its Homelander/Anthony Starr

[@HopwoodXIV]

haha thank you

[@swoondrones]

Oh man sorry I couldn't come and make it. I'm in Australia. Damn I missed the food! :)

[@HopwoodXIV]

Haha next time!

[@lindawhitehead8543]

love love love the videos and enjoyed your book. would love to see it in person someday.

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you Linda! I hope so too!

[@HeyMJ.]

Hopwood, it’s truly stunning! Kudos to you and the entire Hopwood Team. It’s truly a testament to the incredible power of positivity, love, community and ‘can-do’ attitude! Congratulations! 🎉

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you MJ!

[@hereharehere]

Seconded! The renovation of Hopwood Hall is an extraordinary showcase of what can be achieved when people come together. Hopwood made such a brave decision to risk crossing the pond to dedicate himself to this. He couldn't have known that the community would rally around him with such dedication to take on this mammoth and daunting project. I take my hat off to all of the people who have given their time, skills and effort to this. What an amazing group of people. You should all be enormously proud of yourselves.

[@HopwoodXIV]

@@hereharehere ❤❤❤😀 Thank you!!

[@SarahHovley]

So so exciting to see how far the renovations have come and all of the hard work of everyone!!! 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you!

[@AmbrosiaR]

Im so glad the event was a success! 🎉

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you!

[@Basque-Aragon]

What a dream. 🙂

[@sarahcook5762]

So sorry I missed the open day again.. it looks like so much work and effort went into the day. You definitely have done and amazing job 👏 🎉 well done to everyone. I hope to see you all soon. Xxx

[@jakevalent6180]

Lord Dropwood 😎

[@wmomente]

Bravo !!!

[@georgiakline13]

You are amazing!

[@HopwoodXIV]

😀❤

[@lonesomevalkyrie]

Amazing progress!

[@HopwoodXIV]

😀😀

[@cherylkurucz8852]

Great job everybody! So much work in so much heart was put into it. Makes me want to find some sort of a project in my area and volunteer... Squishies from Washington state🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you Cheryl! Hello to Washington State!!

[@kaycetaylor9365]

Love you Hopwood and the whole team!

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thank you Kayce! 😀❤

[@elizabradley4797]

Hopwood ~ Have major repairs😮 to do to my home but overwhelmed with emptying rooms & self funded but...your magnaminity gives me an unusual tour de force ~ Hopwood is opening for ? 285 guests ~ Whoa ⁉️⁉️⁉️. Anything is possible with Hopwood Hall and Hopwood Dupree ~ Forge on General Dupree ~ The Garden is looking Gorgeous ~ The Courtyard challenge is a little over my head ... clearing all those tiles & some 'repair' 😮 ~ With God & Hopwood Dupree All is Possible 🗽🇬🇧{sorry no other statue emoji}. ~. In Awe total Awe ~ Veni Vidi Vici ~ Julius Cæser right ? You're the actor & know that phrase ~ It will be thrilling to see the final stage(s) for the Main Event ~ Will you wear a Tuxedo ? or Overalls ~ Tuxedo I hope ~ More than a Milestone ~ Hopwood Hall 💪🥵😭😄Blood Sweat & Tears ~ This is Exciting 🥳🎉 One Man's Destiny Is Born ~ His Namesake Liveth 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏🎬🎉 P.S. Prayers for the baby bird & all the other birdies to exit before the Reception ~ maybe they want to attend 🐦

[@HopwoodXIV]

😀❤❤

[@garyvanauken7619]

When does phase III start?

[@HopwoodXIV]

Hi Gary! Hopefully soon but we are awaiting approvals which can take a bit of time

[@petermickus8688]

I've just now found your channel!! You are Sir, a very lucky man!! Cheers and all the best from Ontario, Canada!! 🌞

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thanks Peter! Great to know you're watching! Hello to Ontario!

[@garyjones2582]

Only if those walls could talk, imagine the stories they could tell.. It's looking good, thx for bringing us along.. Take care my friend...

[@HopwoodXIV]

cheers Gary! Thanks for watching!!

[@darcicole5530]

Great progress, Hopwood! Sending you some Michigan ❤️!

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thanks Darci! 😀 ❤

[@happykt]

Hopwood, do you live on the site of Hopwood Hall, now that the place isn't a total wreck?

[@HopwoodXIV]

Hi, not yet but hopefully at some point in the near future along with a few other caretakers to also help keep an eye on the Hall. In the meantime we have 24/7 security watching over the place!

[@dawnportka5138]

Looking wonderful Hopwood I’m glad it’s all coming together ❤

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thanks Dawn!!

[@YesItsMeGuys68]

Congrats ! It must be quite a rewarding feeling to have all worked so hard to get to this place . You have still quite a ways to go though.. keep the spirit alive !

[@HopwoodXIV]

cheers! Yes still a long way to go but we are all definitely enjoying the process! 😀

[@johnboutchia2349]

Wow soo much work but looking beautiful

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thanks John!

[@johnboutchia2349]

@@HopwoodXIV thanks, I’ve been watching all your videos & giving a thumbs up, enjoying the humor, loving the restoration

[@HopwoodXIV]

@@johnboutchia2349 cheers John- great to know you're watching!

[@oquassa]

All of you have done an amazing job so far. I can't wait to come over from the US and visit!

[@HopwoodXIV]

😀

[@AliceSoCal]

Phase 2??? When can we see the renovations??

[@HopwoodXIV]

Hi Alice - yes we are about to start Phase 3. Please check out our earlier videos to see the incredible Phase 2 renovations!! 😀

[@arlysdavis3694]

So fun to see things coming together. Thanks for taking us along.

[@HopwoodXIV]

cheers Arlys!

[@kristind1110]

Is the donated furniture period-specific?

[@HopwoodXIV]

Hi! So far it has been carved furniture that seems in fitting for the Hall but not required to be a specific period. We have been blessed to have so many amazing donations!

[@ednaalmeida5899]

I loved, From Brazil !

[@elizabradley4797]

Bom Dia Brasil ~ Muite Fabuloso Hopwood No Çi 🇧🇷. Hopwood Dupree Emperor 🌊🥳😄

[@HopwoodXIV]

Fantastic! Lovely to hear!! 😀

[@kennethcrace6181]

I love this Hopwood. Thank You.

[@HopwoodXIV]

😀❤

[@L.Spencer]

You just need some mariachi! 🤣

[@HopwoodXIV]

😆😆

[@coby6417]

👏🌟👍🍀💐

[@HopwoodXIV]

😀

[@fernandosiena3846]

loved!

[@HopwoodXIV]

😀

[@j.dragon651]

Take it easy buddy, You don't even have time to shave!

[@HopwoodXIV]

Hahaha exactly

[@032319581]

My family came to North Carolina in 1700. I am fascinated by the history. My DNA is 87% British. English, Scot and Welsh.

[@HopwoodXIV]

Wow it's so interesting to look into your ancestry and see what you can learn!

[@nancyengland6359]

I send you a smile and a dose of appreciation for everyones efforts.

[@HopwoodXIV]

Thanks Nancy!! 😀