How we LOST our CASTLE... Hinchingbrooke House Part 1

In a very special series of films - I go in search of the lost family ancestral home - Hinchingbrooke House in Cambridgeshire, in the East of England. As Viscountess Hinchingbrooke, I am fascinated by the history of house - from its monastic roots to royal visits and nearly 350 years of family history. After the Second World War, like so many other historic homes, the upkeep of the building was too great and the family had to leave Hinchingbrooke. In this first episode, my father-in-law, the 11th Earl of Sandwich revisits his early childhood at Hinchingbrooke, showing me some of the photographic archive and rare family films of life there in the mid-twentieth century.
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We hope you are enjoying series 2 of American Viscountess. You can help support the production of these films by becoming a Patron at www.patreon.com/americanviscountess

I am having issue trying to subscribe to patreon Viscountess, I’m a patreon for Mapperton. How do I fix this ? Wish to do both. Just love this history of the historic home and so sorry so many had list such beautiful homes. Thank you for sharing and looking forward to the tour.

[@mytobytobster]

This was amazing and you’re the best daughter-in-law ever

[@922Terry]

I’d love to meet the Viscountess of Sandwich. She is a great lady! And, a lucky lady. I’m going to research more about her project. A living Downton Abby sort of.

[@schoolingdiana9086]

If I lived in a house where Charles I fought on the porch/patio, they’d have to drag me away after the roof caved in. How heartbreaking! I know it’s just stuff, in the end, but what a picture the aunt’s description paints.

[@lianefehrle9921]

I really do enjoy watching through your eyes the emotional look at these homes. I am in my sixties, born in Germany, moved to America, and love the history of castles, old homes, plus churches. These family homes that were sold or destroyed makes me sad to know that they are not back in the family names. Oh, there might be a few but not many. Through the eyes of the ones that lived in these homes makes me see what love they had of those homes. I’m rambling on. It lease tell us more about these old home and your journey of life as you see it through your eye.

Your appreciation and gratitude of your position, makes you like a star gem, in a crown 👑. You have a true love, of your adopted country, your family, customs and traditions. Pure joy to watch each and every episode you and your husband produce! 🌺🌿🧡 Thank you for sharing, fascinating to watch!

You've perfectly expressed what I also think. She is such a beautiful person, inside and out and it's pure joy to watch her.

Yes I agree about her appreciation ,and gratitud in her position !!!

[@gardenroom65]

Watching Downton Abbey atm.

[@lizcosgrove8199]

I agree she's a lovely lady and the type of person who is needed to mind these glorious great houses. She is so down to earth with no air and graces and is the type of lady who can appreciate these beautiful houses and their history.

[@PLuMUK54]

Here in England, my family have lived in my house for 100 years, and emotional attachments do become strong, especially as I have lived here all of my 67 years. Although I have made changes to the house, I can still walk into a room and "see" my grandma in bed, waiting for me to climb in beside her for a cuddle and a chat; or in another room I will "see" mum sitting in her favourite chair by the fire. I cannot imagine leaving a house after my family had lived there for 300 years, though I do understand why the Earl was less emotionally attached, leaving as he did as a child. It must have been heartbreaking for the adults though. I loved the Rockingham videos, but I think that these may become my favourites. Thank you Julie for reminding me how lucky I am to have so much history around me. I was an History teacher for 35 years, passionate about my subject, and about ensuring that I passed my love onto new generations, but as a teacher it is so easy to focus on syllabuses, and to end up not seeing the wood for the trees. You have reopened my eyes with your videos.

[@jetsetjuliettravels]

Many of your contemporaries are blown away by your life. Your kindness and affection towards your father in law is really lovely. I'm happy to see an American girl treasuring this incredible history. Good on you ❤️

Wow, thank you!

[@debbietaylor5579]

Julie, Seeing you moved to tears made be cry. I too am an American who loves history and traced my family roots back to Scotland in 2014 for a visit to our ancestral home. I get how precious family momentous, pictures and heirlooms mean to our history. Thank you for taking us on this journey with you and your father-in-law.

Thank you Debbie - real tears coming next week and the week after! It was all so emotional. xx

[@sortathesame8701]

Agreed! The world seems to believe that American's have no desire to connect to our roots, but I did as you did and traced my ancestry to Ireland and went back to see the area my family came from. Unfortunately, there was no family home left, but as soon as I entered the area where my ancestors came from I felt an immediate visceral connection! I can hardly wait to go back again!

I'm African American and my Uncle took a DNA test so we could see the list of 11 countries we have heritage from. I will never get the chance to know what village let alone what actual building my ancestors lived it. The magnitude of what was stolen from us means that I can't even mourn anything specifically.

@Shoshana Kirya-Ziraba Allow me to say, this means you have wealth of many heritages that many do not have!

Most Indians that were sent TO the Caribbean used and stuck in indentureship and AFRICANS used as slave by Europeans are unable TO TRACE their roots . That’s something to cry about ..Just think how these people feel

A lot of people dismiss these historic homes and titles as anachronistic, but what they most importantly forget is, they are 'Family' homes with everything that word encompasses. I for one am saddened by their diminished history in some cases. Thank you Julie from another person who tears up at these losses. I am loving both this channel and Mapperton LIve.

🥰🥰🥰🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 thank you!!!

[@wvmountaineer6612]

Absolutely the most emotional I’ve ever been watching a KZbin video. My father passed away in 2016. After watching this video I went and got out the photo albums and home movies. I took them to my mom’s and we laughed and cried while we remembered our family history. Thank you for the gentle nudge in the direction of sharing memories with my 81 year old mother. I will always treasure today. I’m looking forward to the next videos on this topic. Much love from West Virginia. 😊

Thank you for writing this to me. What a treasure of a comment and I'm so glad that this video inspired you to do what you did. You have made my day. Lots of love to you and your mom.

[@jennifereddleman6656]

The production on this is TOP NOTCH! Well done, all of you!

thank you Jennifer!

[@StephenandClaire]

Thank you Jennifer! Did you know we now have our own KZbin channel too! We'd be delighted if you could join us there...

[@jamiecnewyork4293]

The 11th Earl is fascinating. I can't wait for part II.

[@samconboy459]

I went to school at hinchingbrooke! It was an amazing experience to go to school in such an historic building

[@gigieyre]

Julie, you are a treasure! You are so genuine! It's so wonderful how you have taken on the task of preserving your husband's (and now yours) family history. It's so important for these memories to be preserved not only for England's history but for generations to come.

Thank you so much! Be sure to tune on Saturday for part 3!

[@TheLsd76]

It's heartbreaking to hear the sadness in your farther-in-law's voice. It must be hard to talk about the things he loved & lost. So thank you both (and the entire family) for sharing your memories with us!

Listening to the Earl share his memories was wonderful. I really enjoyed seeing the family film. I am very excited about learning more with Earl and his sister! Love from Vermont

Thank you Rebekah!

[@Holidaygal]

Didn’t the current Earl have about 5 sisters and one brother?

[@JeanineMarieCompassion]

Julie this was beautiful! I think I understand what the tears signify. A triumph over difficulty and an opportunity to see the past through the lens of love and appreciation. I’m so glad your father in law is getting to see this with you and also because of you! 💐

Thank you so much!

[@EMB238]

Lovely program Julie. Tell us more about your father-in-law’s American grandmother! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

I'm doing my dissertation for my Masters on her! More about her in the next episodes!

Yes. I thought Americans brought money to the landed gentry and saved the houses.

[@p.a.667]

As a fellow American, also from Illinois, I have loved your journey since I watched you on Ladies of London. Your stories are so interesting and I am happy that you make these videos to share your experiences and life with us. It is truly captivating as your personality shines through!

Thank You!!

[@TWROC96]

I loved the story of your father-in-law's mother wearing trousers to an event and walking across the lawn- she was not only a trend setter but an independent woman it seems. This is a wonderful video and I can't wait to see the rest of the series

Thank you so much for watching and hope you subscribe too!

[@barbromano9975]

What a beautiful and honest story. It must have been hard for those relatives that had to leave.

When my sister moved to England, I ended up moving with her for a little while. I was doing some exploring & I came across a small castle, (which I thought was a museum) I then walked into a dining room & saw my name spelled exactly the correct way on top of a painting. Which was so fascinating to me. I don’t know if I had ever seen my first name spelled correctly in any official way. This was at Hitchingbrooke house, which was also my nephew’s school. I was in awe staring at the painting & I almost got locked in the grounds. I thought I might be in trouble but the groundskeeper was very polite & maybe appreciated my sense of curiosity. My nephew got the ABSOLUTE best education in the UK & had the best manners when we lived there. I always wanted you discuss your family’s history in Huntingdon! I ended up becoming obsessed with the Ladies of London as soon as it premiered after we moved down the road to Brampton. One of my favorite reality tv shows. Thank you so much for sharing💖

[@wandasetzer1469]

Your father-in-law seems to be holding in some sadness thinking back to his childhood. All the children running around, the ladies so happy, and his friend the servant keeping him tuned into what was going on later on. I always hate hearing about the death duties and the astronomical cost of keeping these beautiful homes in shape. Too expensive for anybody but robber barons! I love old buildings, old furniture, old-fashioned ways and more. But I'm here in North Carolina where there isn't much that's really old. We do have the one faux-antique home, Biltmore House, but of course no one lives there either.

[@nancysmith2389]

Robber Baron is the right word. Not too sorry for them.

[@wandasetzer1469]

@@nancysmith2389 I didn't mean the families that lost their homes, since they clearly couldn't afford to keep them. They weren't robber barons, and most of them considered themselves stewards of the lands and buildings they owned. Once they had to move on, very often there was nobody interested in taking on the enormous cost of preserving these historic estates. There are people who could afford to maintain those expensive properties today, and THEY are the robber barons. Or they can buy Twitter.

[@karenryder6317]

why do you call the NC biltmore house "faux-antique"?

@karen ryder It’s only 127 years old.

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

It’s so sad that so many British historical homes had to go after WWII, either to new owners, or, much much worse, to to the wrecking ball. Isn’t this when the National Trust was started, to save the ones that were left? In one of my old English Country House books, there is a photo of a beautiful Jacobean house, structurally intact, but gutted, all the windows broken out by vandals. I remember wishing that I had the money to rescue it. My love affair with these homes has been lifelong.

[@christineharding4190]

The National Trust was founded in 1895 for the reasons you stated but it doesn't just protect old buildings (large and small) it also protects large swathes of land as well.

[@ah5721]

The problem with a historical register is that you have to repair things historically so it makes it difficult to repair and it can be a costly endeavor to do things the historical way.

[@maryalicecullen526]

It hurts to think of all those beautiful houses that are just lost to history now. Like imagine if Highclere was lost! That’s one of the most iconic homes now because of Downton Abbey and it would be sad if we never got to experience it. The taxes that were imposed after the war, the amount of staff it takes to run a great house, all of it is crazy to think about.

[@nan7503]

well thankfully, due to the monies received from Downton Highclere is quite safe. And also for Julie her series about visiting all the castles has certainly helped them and tourism in the area.

[@eve7896]

And we got REALLY close to Highclere being lost! From what I've read, in 2010 Andrew Lloyd Weber tried to buy the Castle to store his art collection inside. He didn't succeed back then, because the Earl and Countess of Carnavon didn't have severe enough financial problems to accept an offer from someone like that. But he could wait... and who knows what would happen a year or two later. Downton Abbey starting at precisely that time saved Highclere Castle from ending as a fancy warehouse for a self-centered rich man. We would never be able to visit and see it ever again if it would happen.

[@sayanidatta5728]

I think Britishers must understand the pain that they caused to other countries whom they made their colonies. You are crying over a house imagine what your ancestors did with us. Looted every bit of our wealth and reduced us to ashes. Now you are showing off your fancy houses and diamond tiaras which is actually our lifeblood. Shame on you people.

[@jillosler9353]

I've been to Hinchingbrooke House which is now a respected school. It's beautiful. What would have been part of the old grounds must be where Hinchingbrooke Hospital now sits; a hospital which saved my late husband's life ten years before fate finally took him.

[@christinewright110]

My sons went to Hinchingbrooke School. It still has that enormous sense of history and even a haunting. It is very sad that it is no longer a family home but, at least, it can still be enjoyed. Kimbolton Castle has a similar history. It is where Catherine of Aragon died. That is now a school that my daughter attended. The Headmaster's study was the Queen's bedchamber.

[@DellaZA]

You are the epitome of grace and refinement. Such a great example to a certain duchess we all loathe. She could have just gracefully adopt her new proud legacy. But nooooooo, she had to be a cheap entitled disgrace.

[@SweetOne.]

Thank you! I feel the loss of it too... looking at the bright side, your Grandfather was able to save Mapperton and Hinchingbrooke. Both are still standing and being cared for. Your family will always be associated with both properties in a positive way. Much Respect!!

The historial information and the Earl's memories are very special!

[@heathermartinez8640]

I was moved to tears thinking through the sacrifices made to keep family manor homes and estates going. There is so much work involved.

[@GavinsMarineMom]

How very blessed you are to be able to ask the Earl about the history of his childhood home. And how very blessed is the Earl to have a daughter-in-law who cares and loves him enough to do it. Beautiful ❤🇬🇧🇺🇲

[@alley7731]

Love to hear the history behind these great estates. Your joy and enthusiasm is infectious🥰 Can't wait to see the rest of the series!

Thanks so much!

[@michaelmullard4292]

Julie: Watching this was incredibly moving and speaks to the necessity for all families to preserve their history for later generations. Though your family no longer has Hinchingbrooke, you still have a rich history that deserves to be retold. I am so glad that these memories are being preserved on video; not only for your family but for everyone.

[@catherineenglish9542]

Thank you Julie for all of the love you have given this family and home

[@kathymcfarland5516]

That was so moving and emotional! It brings back memories of my grandmother who wanted to visit the house she lived in, right after leaving San Francisco. She was born in SF in 1896 and moved to Berkeley when she was about 10, where she sat on the fence and watched the City burn in the 1906 Earthquake and Fire. I now have all the old photographs and handwritten diaries stored in a trunk. Many of the photographs are of people I never knew and don't even know their names. It really brings back the concept of history and family when I watch the current Earl get misty over his childhood photos and movies. You, Julie, are so profoundly privileged to be a part of this family and of its history. So glad you are interested in carrying on the history! Really looking forward to watching the next episode! Beautifully edited and photographed! Please let those responsible know how much we appreciate their work!

[@katherinefisher6847]

What a lovely, touching episode, Julie. The family is very fortunate that you have such a love of your family's history and that you are documenting it through oral and written histories, photographs, memorabilia, and on-site visits. As a midwesterner (Iowa), I love learning English history through your channel. Thank you!

Thank you Katherine! See you here next week for Part 2!

This was absolutely brilliant I cannot wait for part two. Thank you so much for sharing the history of your family with all of us.

Thank you for watching!!!

[@reekachristina4288]

I love that after so many years abroad..you have developed an accent. I have too and without knowing it, it just becomes part of how we speak. You probably don't even realize how British you sound now. It's great 💕

[@lorigray9291]

I've been watching your videos for a year or so now, but this is the first time I realized how very much like his father Luke looks! This is not the same thing exactly, but I grew up in an old farmhouse in New England. It was built in the 1700s, used as army headquarters during the Revolutionary War, was partially rebuilt in 1803 after a fire in the front of the house...and just a wonderful home all the way around. So much character, and so much history. But, we left that house when I was 7 years old, and I've missed it every moment of every day since. It is quite different to move from an average family home to another than it is to leave behind an historical treasure and, in my case, never see the inside of it again. I cannot imagine the emotional impact your family must have suffered when they left Hinchingbrooke. And, for their pain, I am sorry.

What an amazing and intimate view into Hinchingbrooke, a school that went on to create a million memory’s and continues to do so. Thank you for further educating us locals to the house’s history. We are lucky to have its walks & beauty

Thank you and Be sure to tune in on Saturday for part 3- lots of tears from me. xx

@American Viscountess it’s a touching documentary, I live maybe a quarter of a mile away and walked the park this morning. I’ll look forward to watching your content..

[@Suprahampton]

It's funny that you mentioned a house being an anchor, that's how I always felt about my childhood home, it was nothing special just a 3bed terraced house in SW London but it was an anchor for me when I lived in Texas & North Carolina, when I lived in West London etc that brick & mortar building kept me grounded. My parents lived in that house for 43yrs so when they sold it to move to Northants in 2015 it felt like saying goodbye to part of the family

🌻I appreciate all of your videos! So well done

[@StephenandClaire]

We were the crew who were behind the filming and editing of these videos. Did you know that we now have our own KZbin channel as well? We hope you can join us there...

[@ginnyburley9552]

It is remarkable to bring life to historical events and places. Seeing people living real lives imbues every place with soul. Beauty lost to time and the fates of evolving economic reality has a particular sadness.

[@mradventurer8104]

Nicely told! The nuns also lost the nunnery before that! Yes over time we gain and lose and the same goes for families. Nothing we can keep forever but we can cherish the good times.

When I heard the name of Olivier Cromwell, I was turned off. He and his troops invaded Ireland and evicted Irish Catholics from their properties. He sold many Irish into slavery and shipped them abroad.

I always love Julie when I see her on British TV. She is a great example to people to appreciate history. Even if you live in a tiny one bedroom there is always great stories and signs of the past all around us

[@catherineenglish9542]

This family worked so very hard to maintain their legacy . It takes enormous wealth to maintain these homes. This is very sad .

[@pammiedoodle8693]

Why was I tearing up and feeling nostalgic while watching those old home movies of people I didn’t even know?🤷‍♀️ I’m going to blame it on being American, too!🥰 What a wonderful introduction to Hinchingbrooke and I cannot wait to see the tour with you and your father-in-law! Blessings 🙏

Thank you so much!!! Really appreciate this comment 🥰🙏🏻🥰

[@KyleClaytonGore]

The production of these episodes and the talent of Julie, just keeps getting better!!

Thank you!

[@StephenandClaire]

Thank you Kyle! Did you know that we now have our own KZbin channel as well? We hope you can join us there...

Julie is such a treasure. What a gift she is to her family ❤

[@anettemurdoch2803]

Julie, you are such a wonderful person! And so sweet with your father-in-law and his sister. It makes me happy to see this.

A home is where you are loved. It’s a state of mind.

[@QueenBamBEE32724]

Julie-I'm so touched by your humility, and your energy is just charming! You've certainly not let your station go to your head, and for that, I really enjoy this content of yours!

[@1-daydecorating8]

Thank you for sharing this history with us. Can you imagine the building of this castle? We certainly don't build classy places like that anymore. And learning the history from someone who actually lived there is amazing. You are charming.

[@goldenineke]

When I’ve read, as a lover of history, the losses the UK suffered with the demolition of so many grand houses, it’s a blessing that Hinchingbrooke survived, albeit not as the family seat. I guess we should be grateful for that.

[@davidknowles3459]

During the 1950's,one Country House was demolished every week.So many beautiful houses were lost

yes, that's exactly right.

[@meichong8278]

@@davidknowles3459 Yes it's ironic that the government felt those houses good enough to sequester for the war effort but sought to punish the owners for political reasons after the war .

[@davidknowles3459]

@@meichong8278 Yes,it was mainly higher Taxation and higher staff costs that led to the loss of those wonderful houses

[@meichong8278]

@@davidknowles3459 Its always been my understanding that the post war government by introducing/ increasing the death duties was in very large part the main reason as they sought to force the aristocracy out

[@TexasHomesteaders]

Being away at boarding school a lot may be why he doesn't have such an emotional attachment to that home. Thank you for sharing.

Sounds like Earl had a closer relationship with butler than parents, sad

[@cathyfeigert5660]

I can’t wait to see part two. The history is so interesting, and everything is just beautiful.

[@patriciabaughn4749]

I can understand your emotions regarding Hinchingbrooke and admire you for your devotion to its history.

[@jeanangel2104]

Julie you are a jewel, they are lucky to have you.....beautiful.

[@ShannonHagan]

Well done! I got tears in my eyes thinking about the memories he must have. Great job.

[@paulinetherien6989]

This is a very interesting and touching piece of history. Thank you so much. Now, with all due respect, could someone give Julie a cuppa to keep her hands busy. 😉

[@1asset]

lol, that’s true: her arms/hands do flail around as she’s talking. i noticed because i do the same thing! 🤣🤣🤣

Good for mom wearing trousers! Bravo!

[@StephenandClaire]

We can't wait for you to all see this episode and the rest of the series - so good!

[@ravenclaw783]

How awesome it is to have a little library of priceless information that enables you to connect all the historical dots!

[@MetaMM]

So wonderful for you to interview your father-in-law. Such fascinating story to listen to his story.

[@hangin-in-thereawesome4245]

Dear American Vicountess Julie, how sad but also exciting to see Hitchingbrook! Just waiting!

[@AndrewMartinIsHere]

I live 3 miles from Hinchingbrooke House, and will be going on a tour of it soon 🤞🏻

[@robincoleman6098]

It was a pleasure to watch .i went to school there in the 1980s I remember the Wendy house pond and the pets graveyard .I also have a 1952 atco mower that was used to cut the grass there in 1952

[@lindseyjohnstone7135]

Can't wait for the next episode 😍

[@trevorjones5625]

Thank you for making this and sharing the history of Hinchingbrooke. I lived in Huntingdon for 40 years and know Hinchingbrooke very well from my childhood. I now live down the road in Godmanchester but still walk my dog at Hinchingbrooke country park and nature reserve. Anything where i can learn about the history of where i grew up is a very welcome sight to see. Looking forward to part 2. I will now share this on all of the local community Facebook groups in the Huntingdon area for others to see so hopefully some new members for you as well. Keep up the great work.

Thank you so much!!1

[@naomicoe6738]

It’s lovely to see the pictures and stories. I went to Hinchingbrooke school as did my mother and my daughters. My youngest is spending her last few weeks there. We all feel lucky to of had such a beautiful school.

What a blessing it is to have these photos, film, and memories! ❤️ How special! I love hearing John talk about the history and to learn about his family! Julie, you're an amazing daughter-in-law and you can see the love your in-laws have for you!!! You can truly see your heart for your husband's family history and love of country! I saw a few clips of Ladies of London and Julie, you're nothing like them! You're a Genuine woman with a soft and kind heart and so down-to-earth! I'm thankful you're Who you are! Your laughter encourages me and I just love your videos and Mapperton videos! I think THIS video is my absolute Favorite one! It's so special to me! Thank you, Julie, Luke, John, Caroline, family and staff who make these videos possible! They're amazing!!!!! 😊 ❤️

[@sharonlarochelle1192]

Very pleased you are sharing this story

[@Bloom5056]

Looking forward to this in a big way!

Julie I am so moved by this . I literally have tears . Your father-in-law is so sweet. This is so special to see. Thank you. ♥️

🙏🏻🥰

[@tabitha4135]

Yes he’s a lovely man 👨

[@realxman2000]

Love these episodes, thank you for putting so much effort into them!

[@marytanne4964]

Julie this series is amazing! Thank you for exploring your family ancestral home and sharing it with all of us! The past pictures and videos of Hichingbrooke were incredible! Looking forward to watching the next episodes!

[@DoingItOurselvesOfficial]

This is television quality.

thank you so much!! Please spread the word. xx Julie

[@StevenRockwood]

I thought it was! ...

[@rustyshackleford7334]

@American Viscountess you should invite Rick Steve's you 2 would make an excellent video together

What a wonderful thing to see. I love listening to the stories and the photos and old films.

Great series ! Viscountess aww so wonderful to truly see your passion brought tears to my eyes as well! Thank You for all that you do!

Thank you so much!

[@susansweeney1069]

I'm so inspired by your historic commentary Julie, thanks for keeping these houses alive for us .🇬🇧

[@jaytibbles2223]

Belated Happy Birthday to the Earl. He is 5 months older than I!

[@deniseblackman5229]

I love this! And I love history! Not the politics, not the wars, but the lives, the way people lived, how houses looked, what kind of food they ate and everything else. Can’t wait for part 2.

You can get the house back! We got a home back that was in our family for 160 years and out of our family for 20 years!

[@carmensantana1374]

Just love your energy and love for history ❤️❤️

[@Aussietari]

I've so looked Forward to Seeing this Episode about Beautiful Hinchingbrooke House, &. It did Not Disappoint.😊 Hearing you talk with the always Fascinating, Earl of Sandwich, &. Hearing his Memories, has Moved me Incredibly, Julie.🥰

Yay, thank you!

What a delightful, touching episode. ❤❤❤

Julie, It's so nice to see you both sharing His history, a real link with the past. was born in February 1942 and I would imagine he is somewhat my age. I grew up in a Victorian Farmhouse in New Jersey and He grew up in a castle and manor but we are both of a generation quite different from today. I can't wait to see your next episode. Cheers, Rik Spector

[@Holidaygal]

Close, Julie’s Father-in-law John was born in 1943. he was around 12 when they abandoned the house and moved to Dorset aka Mapperton

[@larkmurry7808]

Merci! Nostalgic, indeed...

[@tburnsmatheny]

Really enjoying this program of houses and history. Thank you.

[@orangepeel3465]

What a beautiful episode!

[@kellmac]

I'm so glad this was in my recommended! It's exactly the type of topic I love.

[@wendyhart8968]

Thank you for sharing the history of your father in law.

Thanks for listening

[@jmliddle]

I love this channel so much it allows me to travel without leaving my home in Canada and let’s me see the beauty and history of these amazing manor homes. Absolutely love Julie.

[@chriscraver4070]

Beautiful story Julie. A very emotional one for me also. Can’t wait to see and hear more. You are a wonderful story teller of the family’s history. Your genuine feelings come out and your love of history is what makes American Viscountess a joy to watch no matter what beautiful home you are discussing.

Thank you so much Chris! Makes me smile. :-) Julie

[@jenifersmith3987]

Wow! Very very special. Thanks for bringing history to life the way you do

[@jeffreyskinner7167]

Absolutely love how respectful and gracious you treat your in-laws you truly are of I countess of manners

[@sandraguerrero8027]

You have a big heart ❤️ Julie you are very kind and love your family. It's fine to get emotional it shows that you care.The history of the castles you go to is so interesting.You married into a Wonderful and lovely family...

[@roberthossen8354]

I can thoroughly imagine you were emtional on seeing Hinchingbrooke House, together with family. Their ancestral home, which they had to leave behind, like so many peers had to sell, leave and see their beloved homes demolished. So much lost fabulous heritage. I could name you hundreds and as an art historian by origin, still feel sad about it. Thank God Hinchingbrooke still stands!!

[@lemorab1]

I love this. I also love ancestral homes and get very attached to places where I have memories. Thank you!

[@SimplethingswithTamiVlogs]

What beautiful memories! I love hearing from your father in law ❤

What a beautiful way to honor the history and heritage of your family. These legacy interviews where the younger generations sits own and does a video interview with the previous generations is so important for history as a whole - and to preserve the familial history and events from those who lived though them, whatever they may be. My father isn't an Earl, but had quite an interesting career which led him to work with and cross paths with many well known historical figures. He was also born at the beginning of WWI into a very poor family, and knew that his intelligence, education and hard work would be his path to freedom - which he realizedafter he spent a year of his young life restricted to bedrest after after being diagnosed with menagitis, as strict bedrest was (incorrectly) thought to be the antidote in the 1940's. In short, I constructed a list of questions about their lives and various critical times, and moments, for both my father andd my mother (who have been married for 62 years) and sat down with them and videotaped their answers and stories. Boy, did I learn a lot - and I gained a whole new layers of perspective regarding the lives they've led, and the the journey it has taken. I made copies for all of my sisters and their grandkids (my neices and nephews). We all now have this beautiful memory and history context, that will now be preserved and shared with future generations of our family. I encourage everyone to do something like this with elder family members you are still fortunate enough to have with you - it's a priceless gift. Thanks for another beautiful video Julie - I can't wait to see Part 2...it would also be amazing to see you do a similar type of interview with your own parents, I'm sure your children, and grandchildren, would be very grateful for this history and memories of their mother's side of the family when they are older ! 😊

This is so wonderful and fascinating what you have done! I hope others read this! Incredible! And thank you!!!! Lots more to come.

❤this! Looking forward to video at Hinchingbrooke!

[@laurac8659]

So touching. Thank you for sharing! Wonderful video.

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@del_ecuras1836]

Your enthusiasm for the history of your family is heart warming As a big lover of our history this makes me happy that’ there are people that will care in the future

thank you so much!! Please spread the word. xx Julie

So precious!!