More than 40 objects once owned by the Morgan family are back in Tredegar House after more than half a century away.
Friends of Tredegar House kindly funded the once-in-a-life time opportunity to return items ranging from a Cartier watch to cleaning brushes to their original home.
They belonged to Mike and Jeanette Smith, who live in Western Australia.
Mr Smith’s grandfather was William Sayzeland, butler and companion to companion to Courtenay Morgan (Lord Tredegar 1913 to 1934) while his father Henry was valet to Evan Morgan (Lord Tredegar 1934 to 1949).
His collection was built up through gifts, such as the Cartier watch; purchases, such as a telescope from Courtenay’s yacht and being invited to take things from the House which included drinking glasses and even cleaning brushes.
There are also some interesting and personal photographs including one of Mr Smith’s father with Evan Morgan’s parrot, Blue Boy, which was renowned for its bad language.
Staff at the House and the Friends are very excited that such varied and interesting items have been returned. They will help to tell the story of the Morgan family as well as the people who worked for them in their stately home and on the estate.
Mike Smith will be talking about the collection and recalling stories at Tredegar House at 7pm on June 27.
Tickets are available from [email protected] or 01633 894108.
Set in a beautiful 90 acre park, Tredegar House is one of the best examples of a 17th century Charles II mansion in Britain. For more information visit www.newport.gov.uk/tredegarhouse
