The remarkable removal and return of Tattershall castle's historic fireplaces
At one point Tattershall castle was left in ruin and at one point the ornate fireplaces were auctioned off the people revolted and the fireplaces were returned.
LOCAL HISTORY
Located in Lincolnshire, England, Tattershall Castle is a magnificent medieval fortress that has stood the test of time. Built in the 15th century by Ralph, Lord Cromwell, it has witnessed centuries of history and undergone various transformations. One of the most intriguing aspects of Tattershall Castle is its collection of intricate fireplaces, which sadly, were sold and removed from the castle in the early 20th century.
The fireplaces at Tattershall Castle were renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship and unique designs. They were considered to be among the finest examples of medieval and Tudor-era fireplaces in England. However, due to financial difficulties faced by the then-owner, Lord Curzon of Kedleston, the decision was made to sell off the fireplaces in 1910.
Lord Curzon, a prominent British statesman and viceroy of India, sought to restore the castle to its former glory. However, the cost of maintaining such a historic structure proved to be a significant burden. In an effort to raise funds, Lord Curzon made the difficult choice to part with the castle's prized fireplaces.
The ruined castle was sold to an American consortium in 1910. The following year, the 15th century fireplaces were ripped out and sold to an American millionaire.
The removal of these medieval fireplaces triggered public outcry. One paper stated, “Tattershall Castle is being ravaged in a time of peace with the consent of its owner and apparently without the possibility of more than verbal opposition.”
A newspaper cutting from 1911. SPAB Archive.
Rumours soon spread that the entire castle would be torn down and rebuilt overseas – a fate that met many European historic buildings and structures in the 20th century, including London Bridge in 1968.
After much outcry and a nationwide hunt, the fireplaces were found in London (possibly on their way to America), purchased by the controversial Earl of Curzon, and brought home to Tattershall.
Curzon purchased the castle for £500 and employed Architect William Weir, who worked closely with the SPAB, to oversee the repairs.
The SPAB Annual Report for 1912 states, “The fate of this most valuable example of a 15th century castle has been watched with anxiety for some time. Happily, it has now passed into the possession of the Right Hon. Earl Curzon of Kedleston, who is undertaking extensive works of repair which will ensure its future safety.” Curzon would go on to leave the castle to the National Trust.
