Talk by Karen Davidson, Castle Archivist, 
on The Photography of Ellen Willmott.

Although famous as a horticulturalist, Charles Berkeley's great, great-aunt Ellen Willmott was also an enthusiastic photographer
and Karen gave us an intriguing insight into Miss Willmott's fascinating life.

The audience were particularly interested in the photographs showing before and after shots 

of the many changes to the Castle made by the eighth Earl.

Full report in the Autumn edition of the Berkeley Buttress.

Friends of Berkeley Castle - Annual General Meeting

Tuesday 30th April 2019

Developments since the last AGM were explained, the finances are in a healthy position, and plans for the future were outlined.  

 Two new members joined the Committee (having been co-opted during the year), other committee members coming up for re-election were happy to stand again, and the chairman, Paul Walkden, retired after six years.   

David Bowd-Exworth was elected chairman, and welcomed back to the role.

Full report in the Autumn edition of the Berkeley Buttress.

FoBC President Charles Berkeley with Paul Walkden and secretary Jane Handoll.

Charles Berkeley presenting the Committee's gift to the retiring Chairman.

Following the AGM on Tuesday 30 April:   "Miss Willmott's Ghosts"

Talk by Castle Archivist Karen Davidson about Charles Berkeley's great-great aunt Miss Ellen Willmott (owner and designer of gardens in England, France and Italy, sponsor of plant-hunting expeditions and keen photographer) and Berkeley Castle.

Cash bar from 7pm.    Tickets £9 (non-members £12).

NOTIFICATION 

FRIENDS OF BERKELEY CASTLE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

TUESDAY 30th APRIL 2019 - 7.30pm

THE GREAT HALL, BERKELEY CASTLE

See the Spring edition of the Berkeley Buttress.

Spring 2019 edition of The Berkeley Buttress coming soon.

Latest news, reports of past events, stories from the archives and 

details of 2019 Friends events are included.

Membership cards and complimentary tickets for those who paid by

standing order on 14th February are included in the envelopes.

Membership renewal forms and events order forms are also in the mailing.

Talk by Jon Cannon, Keeper of the Fabric, Bristol Cathedral
9 December 2018

Over fifty of the Friends were fascinated to hear about the Augustinian abbey founded by 

Robert Fitzharding who became first Lord Berkeley.  That abbey is the basis of what is now Bristol Cathedral.   

The lands of the Berkeley estate had been granted to Robert Fitzharding by Henry II in 1153 and 

he established the abbey on his land adjacent to Bristol. 

The connection between the Berkeley family and the building continued for centuries.

This was a most informative and engaging talk by an expert on 

the Medieval art, architecture and history of the Cathedral.

The festive spirit at the Castle was enhanced by the mulled wine, mince pies and fruit cake, 

freshly baked by Berkeley WI.

Sunday 18th November
Philip Taubenheim - Antiques Afternoon in the Great Hall

A very interesting and entertaining Friends event.  Philip Taubenheim of Wotton Auction Rooms spoke about his background 

and work as an auctioneer, with stories of various finds, plus developments in the operations 

of auction houses arising from increased use of the internet and a more global reach.

In speaking about some of the interesting objects brought along by Friends, 

Philip provided an insight into what is in fashion and what is now difficult to sell.

More information in February's Berkeley Buttress.

Scrumptious Afternoon Tea in the Long Drawing Room. 
Thank you to Berkeley W.I.

We also had the opportunity to admire the wonderful tapestries which are looking so much better 

as a result of the fundraising activities of the Friends of Berkeley Castle.