history

HISTORY OF HARWOOD HOUSE

Harwood House was commissioned by Daisy, Countess of Warwick, during the late 1930s.

Daisy was a socialite, often attending lavish parties and gatherings. She became involved in affairs with several powerful men, most notably King Edward VII.

It was not uncommon in the Victorian era for married women of social prominence to become romantically involved with a man higher on the social ladder than her husband.

This was often with the husband’s knowledge, as it could assist in his advancing socially or politically, and was considered normal for the times.

Daisy’s main flaw was that she rarely kept her affairs private, and when involved with a man of wealth and power, she had a distinct habit of divulging it to others.

Daisy founded Studley Agricultural College for Women and also a needlework school at Easton in Essex. She dabbled with socialism and hosted meetings of trade unionists at Easton Lodge, which she retained as a private residence after moving to Warwick Castle. She created lavish gardens at Easton Lodge which you can visit today.

In the late 1930s, Daisy was trying to win favour with the local community and commissioned a house build for the Essex County Farmers. Britain went to war and although building work ceased during the war years, Harris the Builders continued with Harwood House, because of the involvement of the Countess.

Daisy was closely acquainted with Captain Henry Harwood. Harwood was famous for leading the British Navy to victory in the Battle of the River Plate, after which he was appointed Admiral and later became knighted. When Harwood was called to war, the Countess decided to give the house Harwood’s name and the rest is history.

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