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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241015T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241015T140000
DTSTAMP:20250203T221649Z
CREATED:20240702T200839Z
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SUMMARY:Chicago | Pamela Harriman: A Life of Power\, Seduction\, and Intrigue by Sonia Purnell
DESCRIPTION:Often written off as a mere courtesan and social climber\, Pamela Harriman’s true historic legacy has been overshadowed by her glamorous social life and infamous erotic adventures. Much of what she did behind the scenes – on both sides of the Atlantic – remained invisible and secret. During WWII\, Churchill’s beloved daughter-in-law became his “secret weapon\,” strategically wining\, dining\, and seducing diplomats and generals to help win over Americans to the British cause against Hitler. After the war\, she helped to transform Fiat heir\, Gianni Agnelli\, into Italy’s ‘uncrowned king’ on the international stage. After helping the Democratic party and an unknown Bill Clinton take the American presidency\, she was appointed U.S. Ambassador to France. In this role she deployed her legendary powers to charm world leaders\, while working on N.A.T.O. expansion and aiding efforts to bring peace to Bosnia—playing a huge role during the high-water mark of American global supremacy. For five decades Harriman blazed a trail through to the center of political power. There is practically no one in 20th-century politics\, culture\, and fashion whose lives she did not touch\, including the Kennedys\, Truman Capote\, Aly Khan\, Kay Graham\, Ed Murrow\, and Frank Sinatra. Harriman acknowledged her notoriety and admitted “I’d rather have had bad things written about me than be forgotten.” In this lecture\, investigative journalist and award-winning biographer Sonia Purnell presents an electrifying re-examination of Harriman’s story using new research and previously unknown sources. Telling a tale full of sex and politics; set on yachts and in palaces; and always hallmarked by glamour and luxury\, Purnell will unveil for the first time how Harriman left an indelible mark in the heart of world history and politics. \nSonia Purnell is a bestselling author and journalist known for her lively writing and meticulous research\, with a global readership. Her work has been optioned by leading filmmakers and praised by diverse audiences. Her first book\, “Just Boris: A Tale of Blond Ambition\,” a biography of Boris Johnson\, was longlisted for the Orwell Prize in 2011 and remains the definitive biography. Her second book\, “First Lady” (UK) / “Clementine” (US)\, unveiled the crucial role of Winston Churchill’s wife\, Clementine\, influencing her portrayal in media such as Netflix’s “The Crown.” “A Woman of No Importance\,” Purnell’s third book\, tells the true story of WWII spy Virginia Hall and became a New York Times Bestseller\, winning the Plutarch Prize for Best Biography in 2020. Her latest book\, “Kingmaker: Pamela Harriman’s Astonishing Life of Power\, Seduction & Intrigue\,” to be published in September 2024\, reexamines the life of Pamela Harriman\, revealing her influence on 20th-century politics. Purnell’s work has received acclaim from numerous publications\, including the Independent\, Guardian\, Daily Telegraph\, and New York Times. Her books have been translated into over twenty languages\, inspiring readers worldwide. \n\nLecture 11:30-12:30\, Followed by Luncheon\nTickets: $85 members*\, $95 non-members \n*Membership discount applied automatically when logged into your Royal-Oak.org account \nLocation: Private Women’s Club; for more information call Aliza Willner at 212-480-2889 x 200\ndetails will be provided upon ticket receipt \n\nBUSINESS ATTIRE REQUIRED
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/chicago-pamela-harriman-a-life-of-power-seduction-and-intrigue-with-sonia-purnell/
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Purnell.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241016T181500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241016T200000
DTSTAMP:20241016T163733Z
CREATED:20240702T200304Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241016T163733Z
UID:10000146-1729102500-1729108800@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:NYC | Pamela Harriman: A Life of Power\, Seduction\, and Intrigue by Sonia Purnell
DESCRIPTION:Often written off as a mere courtesan and social climber\, Pamela Harriman’s true historic legacy has been overshadowed by her glamorous social life and infamous erotic adventures. Much of what she did behind the scenes – on both sides of the Atlantic – remained invisible and secret. During WWII\, Churchill’s beloved daughter-in-law became his “secret weapon\,” strategically wining\, dining\, and seducing diplomats and generals to help win over Americans to the British cause against Hitler. After the war\, she helped to transform Fiat heir\, Gianni Agnelli\, into Italy’s ‘uncrowned king’ on the international stage. After helping the Democratic party and an unknown Bill Clinton take the American presidency\, she was appointed U.S. Ambassador to France. In this role she deployed her legendary powers to charm world leaders\, while working on N.A.T.O. expansion and aiding efforts to bring peace to Bosnia—playing a huge role during the high-water mark of American global supremacy. For five decades Harriman blazed a trail through to the center of political power. There is practically no one in 20th-century politics\, culture\, and fashion whose lives she did not touch\, including the Kennedys\, Truman Capote\, Aly Khan\, Kay Graham\, Ed Murrow\, and Frank Sinatra. Harriman acknowledged her notoriety and admitted “I’d rather have had bad things written about me than be forgotten.” In this lecture\, investigative journalist and award-winning biographer Sonia Purnell presents an electrifying re-examination of Harriman’s story using new research and previously unknown sources. Telling a tale full of sex and politics; set on yachts and in palaces; and always hallmarked by glamour and luxury\, Purnell will unveil for the first time how Harriman left an indelible mark in the heart of world history and politics. \n \nSonia Purnell is a bestselling author and journalist known for her lively writing and meticulous research\, with a global readership. Her work has been optioned by leading filmmakers and praised by diverse audiences. Her first book\, “Just Boris: A Tale of Blond Ambition\,” a biography of Boris Johnson\, was longlisted for the Orwell Prize in 2011 and remains the definitive biography. Her second book\, “First Lady” (UK) / “Clementine” (US)\, unveiled the crucial role of Winston Churchill’s wife\, Clementine\, influencing her portrayal in media such as Netflix’s “The Crown.” “A Woman of No Importance\,” Purnell’s third book\, tells the true story of WWII spy Virginia Hall and became a New York Times Bestseller\, winning the Plutarch Prize for Best Biography in 2020. Her latest book\, “Kingmaker: Pamela Harriman’s Astonishing Life of Power\, Seduction & Intrigue\,” to be published in September 2024\, reexamines the life of Pamela Harriman\, revealing her influence on 20th-century politics. Purnell’s work has received acclaim from numerous publications\, including the Independent\, Guardian\, Daily Telegraph\, and New York Times. Her books have been translated into over twenty languages\, inspiring readers worldwide. \nThis program is cosponsored by The Colonial Dames of America. \nPreregistration is now closed. Tickets can be purchased at the door. If you have any questions\, please contact Aliza at 212-480-2889 x200. 
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/nyc-pamela-harriman-a-life-of-power-seduction-and-intrigue-with-sonia-purnell/
LOCATION:CDA Abigail Adams Smith Auditorium\, 417 East 61st Street\, New York City\, NY\, 10065\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Purnell.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241023T181500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241023T200000
DTSTAMP:20250203T221416Z
CREATED:20240822T190339Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250203T221416Z
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SUMMARY:NYC | British Consorts: From the Complicated to the Controversial with Carol Ann Lloyd
DESCRIPTION:The relationship between a royal consort and a reigning monarch can be complicated. While consorts of British monarchs have no constitutional status or power\, many have had significant political influence and supported the sovereign in his or her duties. Historian Carol Ann Lloyd will provide an in-depth exploration of some of Britain’s most legendary royal couples\, focusing on the dramatic challenges they faced in balancing their marriages with their singular roles as rulers. In the 12th century\, the relationship between Eleanor of Aquitaine\, Queen Consort\, and King Henry II was notably turbulent. Their relationship was marked by Eleanor’s attempts to undermine Henry’s reign\, and his subsequent retaliation imprisoning his wife. During the mid-15th century\, Marguerite of Anjou’s efforts to secure the reign of Henry VI led her to become one of the most despised royal consorts in history. Some foreign-born consorts did not try to assimilate into English society after their marriage\, causing devastating political consequences. For example\, during the 17th century\, Queen Henrietta Maria’s lifestyle choices led to the trial and execution of her husband\, King Charles I. Behind the scenes\, some consorts were either forced to act as the de facto British ruler\, such as Queen Charlotte during George III’s unsteady reign\, while others were literally locked out by their King husbands\, such as Queen Caroline and George IV. In her lecture\, Ms. Lloyd will also highlight the male consorts who had to navigate the dual role of husband while they were subject to their reigning queen wives. For example\, Prince Albert could never become King consort\, as his gender would have led him to outrank his wife\, Queen Victoria. Finally\, Ms. Lloyd will discuss the influence of more modern consorts (or would have been consorts)\, including the significant impact of Wallis Simpson on King Edward VIII’s reign\, as well as the complex situation that Prince Philip created for Queen Elizabeth II. \nCarol Ann Lloyd\, Historian and Lecturer \nCarol Ann Lloyd is a popular speaker who shares the stories of Shakespeare and English history. She is the former Manager of Visitor Education at Folger Shakespeare Library\, where she gave workshops and tours about Shakespeare and Early Modern England. Carol Ann has presented programs at the Smithsonian\, Folger Shakespeare Library\, Agecroft Hall\, and TEDx\, among other venues. Ms. Lloyd is a member of the National Speakers Association. \n\n\nTickets: $35 members*; $45 non-members \n*Membership discount applied automatically when logged into your Royal-Oak.org account
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/nyc-british-consorts-from-the-complicated-to-the-controversial-with-carol-ann-lloyd/
LOCATION:The General Society Library\, 20 W. 44th Street\, New York City\, 10036\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
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ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241118T181500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241118T200000
DTSTAMP:20250203T221247Z
CREATED:20240717T193152Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250203T221247Z
UID:10000160-1731953700-1731960000@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:NYC | Churchill at Chartwell: Countdown to War with Katherine Carter
DESCRIPTION:During the tumultuous time leading up to WWII\, Winston Churchill was out of political office with his career apparently finished. However\, behind the scenes Churchill was preparing to meet the oncoming conflict using his home\, Chartwell\, as his base of operations. Chartwell\, with its rich history dating back to the 14th century\, served as more than just Churchill’s home—it was a sanctuary where he wrote speeches\, composed books\, and met with the best political minds of the 20th century. At his dining table\, Churchill gathered those who could assist his campaign against German rearmament and the British government’s response to the rising threat of Nazi Germany. The room in many ways was a witness to history. This eclectic gathering of advisors and informants\, ranging from household names like Albert Einstein and T. E. Lawrence\, to political leaders\, diplomats\, and spies\, played a pivotal role in shaping Churchill’s later strategy as Prime Minister\, and ultimately altering the course of history. Katherine Carter\, Curator at Chartwell\, will un \n \nveil the extraordinary\, yet little-known\, meetings that took place behind closed doors. Ms. Carter will bring to life the remarkable stories of those who visited and influenced Churchill during this pivotal time. Join us to uncover the hidden history of the meetings at Chartwell\, which ultimately influenced the greatest voice of resistance against tyranny. \n\nKatherine Carter is a Curator and Historian specializing in early 20th century British political history\, and manages the house and collections at Chartwell for almost a decade. As Curator\, she is responsible for the research\, conservation\, presentation and interpretation of the Churchill family’s home\, which typically welcomes more than 250\,000 visitors every year. Her exhibitions have included ‘Death of a Hero’\, ‘Into the Trenches’\, ‘Child of the Commons’ and ‘Churchill and the Crown’. Katherine advises organizations and institutions around the world on the life and legacy of Winston Churchill and appears frequently in print and broadcast media. She is a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society\, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts\, and speaks on the subject of Winston Churchill internationally. Her first book is Churchill’s Citadel: Chartwell and the Gatherings Before the Storm\, published by Yale University Press on November 5\, 2024. \n\nTickets: $35 members*; $45 non-members \n*Membership discount applied automatically when logged into your Royal-Oak.org account
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/nyc-churchill-at-chartwell-countdown-to-war-with-katherine-carter/
LOCATION:The General Society Library\, 20 W. 44th Street\, New York City\, 10036\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Capture-1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250129T181500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250129T200000
DTSTAMP:20250203T221001Z
CREATED:20250103T172501Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250203T221001Z
UID:10000178-1738174500-1738180800@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:NYC | The Eagle and the Hart with Helen Castor
DESCRIPTION:The Eagle and the Hart: The Tragedy of Kings Richard II and Henry IV\nRichard of Bordeaux and Henry of Bolingbroke\, cousins born just three months apart\, were ten years old when Richard became king of England. They were 32 yrs old when Henry deposed Richard and declared himself King of England. While Richard had birthright on his side\, he was a narcissist who lacked any qualities of leadership and declared he could make up his own laws. He recruited a private army loyal to himself rather than the realm and tried to destroy those who had any resistance to his will. Unlike the King\, Henry was a leader\, a soldier and a chivalric hero who was responsible and principled. After King Richard banished his cousin and seized his inheritance\, Henry deposed Richard as a tyrant and declared himself the lawful ruler. While welcomed as a champion of the people\, soon King Henry was facing rebellion and was trapped by political uncertainty. Acclaimed historian and author Helen Castor brings to life the captivating story behind one of the strangest and most fateful events in English history (and the inspiration behind one of Shakespeare’s most celebrated plays). Dr. Castor will describe these explosive events and explain what happened when Richard demanded loyalty to himself as an individual\, rather than duty to the established constitution\, and how he tried to reshape reality rather than concede to the truth. She will tell a story about how a nation was brought to the brink of catastrophe and disintegration—and\, in the end\, how it was brought back. \n\nHelen Castor. © Chris Gibbions \nDr. Helen Castor is an acclaimed medieval and Tudor historian. Her first book\, Blood and Roses: The Paston Family in the Wars of the Roses\, was longlisted for what is now known as the Baillie Gifford Prize for Nonfiction and won the English Association’s Beatrice White Prize. Her next two books\, She-Wolves: The Women Who Ruled England Before Elizabeth and Joan of Arc: A History were both on numerous Best Books of the Year lists and made into documentaries for BBC television\, and Joan of Arc was longlisted for the PEN America/Jacqueline Bograd Weld Award for Biography. Her latest book The Eagle and the Hart was published in October 2024. \n\n\n\nIn-Person: 6:15pm Lecture will be followed by a reception \nTickets: Online registration has closed. A limited number of tickets will be available for purchase at the door. \n$35 members*; $45 non-members\n*Membership discount applied automatically when logged in to your Royal-Oak.org account
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/nyc-the-eagle-and-the-hart-with-helen-castor/
LOCATION:The General Society Library\, 20 W. 44th Street\, New York City\, 10036\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/The-Eagle-and-the-Hart.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250318T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250318T193000
DTSTAMP:20250317T204749Z
CREATED:20250122T185110Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250317T204749Z
UID:10000186-1742319000-1742326200@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:Charleston | Blenheim: 300 Years of Life in a Palace with Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill
DESCRIPTION:Blenheim: 300 Years of Life in a Palace\nRegarded as perhaps the greatest of the stately homes and the finest example of baroque architecture in Great Britain\, Blenheim\, in Woodstock\, Oxfordshire\, is a one of England’s treasure houses. Designed by John Vanbrugh and Nicholas Hawksmoor in the early 1700s for the Duke of Marlborough\, Blenheim is filled with artistic treasures crafted by the best talents of the age. Fine furniture and magnificent tapestries highlight incredible paintings from notable artists such as Joshua Reynolds and John Singer Sargent. The lavish rooms provide a window into the history of collecting\, changing styles of English interiors\, and reflects on England’s own history—as well as the history of the Spencer-Churchill family. Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill\, the 12th generation of the family\, will give us an illustrated private tour of the palace—with new photography by Hugo Rittson. In addition to the gilded staterooms full of priceless objet d’arts\, Lady Henrietta will show the family’s private apartments and take us behind-the-scenes into secret corridors and the “downstairs” staff area (with its iconic bell system). She will also share her first-hand experience as one of the palace’s stewards and explain the importance of Blenheim’s restoration\, bringing the estate into the 21st century. Join us as we see Blenheim as it’s never been seen before! \n\nLady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill is an interior designer\, founder of Woodstock Designs\, and author of multiple Rizzoli books on design and historic styles\, including The Life of the House\, Blenheim and the Churchill Family\, and Classic English Interiors. She lectures widely on design and design history in the US and the UK. Hugo Rittson-Thomas is a portrait photographer of many high-profile subjects\, including the British royal family. His work has been published in Romantics and Classics\, Secret Gardens of the Cotswolds\, and Great Gardens of London. \n\n\n\nVENUE\nCharleston Library Society\n164 King Street\nCharleston\, SC 29401 \nOr Call 212-480-2889 x206 to register! \nIn-Person: 6:00pm\, Lecture is preceded by a reception \nTickets: $35 members*; $45 non-members\n*Membership discount applied automatically when logged in to your Royal-Oak.org account
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/charleston-blenheim-300-years-of-life-in-a-palace-with-lady-henrietta-spencer-churchill/
LOCATION:Charleston Library Society\, 164 King St\, Charleston\, SC\, 29401\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blenheim-300-years.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250410T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250410T200000
DTSTAMP:20250310T182416Z
CREATED:20250310T174430Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250310T182416Z
UID:10000187-1744308000-1744315200@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:NYC | The Quest for Queen Mary
DESCRIPTION:Mary of Teck was Queen of the United Kingdom\, the Dominions\, and Empress of India from 1910-1936. The daughter of a German nobleman and granddaughter of George III\, she was always destined to become Queen. But what do we know about Queen Mary? First betrothed to the eldest son of the Prince of Wales\, and after his unexpected death\, married to his younger brother\, the future King-Emperor George V. While some biographies\, films\, and television portray her as a rigid and cold figure in pearls\, she was also a mother and grandmother—whose grandchildren said she loved the moments when they could be “a small family and do small things”. When the late Queen Elizabeth II invited author James Pope-Hennessy to write the official biography of her grandmother\, he set off between 1955 and 1958 to interview Queen Mary’s surviving relatives\, traveling all over Europe as well as to Sandringham and Balmoral. In this lecture\, royal historian Mr. Hugo Vickers will regale us with funny stories from Pope-Hennessy’s notes and other stories shared by members of the British Royal Family. Mr. Vickers will also discuss his own research and bring to life the Queen-Empress who was witness to two world wars\, a bystander to a scandal that rocked the monarchy\, and a monarch who experienced the changes of British society from the beginning of the 20th century until the 1950s. \n\nHugo Vickers\, is well known as a biographer\, lecturer and broadcaster\, and acknowledged expert on the Royal Family. He has covered events from royal weddings\, including the first wedding of the Prince of Wales; the funerals of Diana\, the Queen Mother\, Prince Philip\, the State Funeral and Committal of The Queen; and the Coronation of Charles III. The Financial Times recently described him as: ‘the most knowledgeable royal biographer on the planet.’ He has written many biographies of 20th-century figures\, including Cecil Beaton\, Vivien Leigh\, the Duchess of Windsor\, Princess Andrew of Greece\, and the Queen Mother. His first biography\, about Gladys Deacon\, Duchess of Marlborough (1881-1977) was based on his interviews with her before her death. In 2022\, he published a book with HRH The Duke of Kent\, entitled A Royal Life. In 2024\, Mr. Vickers published a novel Pining in Paradise and his biography of Clarissa\, Countess of Avon (widow of PM Anthony Eden). When not writing\, he travels through the Commonwealth and Overseas Territories\, establishing Commonwealth Walkways. Mr. Vickers is a Deputy Lieutenant for the Royal County of Berkshire and Captain of the Lay Stewards of St George’s Chapel\, Windsor Castle. \nTickets: $35 members*; $45 non-members\n*Membership discount applied automatically when logged into your Royal-Oak.org account \n 
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/nyc-the-quest-for-queen-mary/
LOCATION:The General Society Library\, 20 W. 44th Street\, New York City\, 10036\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Queen_Mary_by_William_Llewellyn.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250415T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250415T193000
DTSTAMP:20250305T181851Z
CREATED:20250129T185808Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250305T181851Z
UID:10000189-1744738200-1744745400@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:Charleston | Sissinghurst
DESCRIPTION:The Rose Garden in May at Sissinghurst Castle Garden\, Kent \nIn 1930\, writer Vita Sackville-West and diplomat Harold Nicolson transformed a neglected Elizabethan farmstead in Kent into Sissinghurst Castle Garden—now one of the world’s most celebrated gardens. Known for its intimate “garden rooms\,” lush plantings\, and internationally renowned collection of old roses\, Sissinghurst remains a masterpiece of 20th-century garden design. As the garden approaches its centenary in 2030\, join head gardener Troy Scott Smith for an in-depth look at its past\, present\, and future. He will share insights into the enduring legacy of Sackville-West and Nicolson’s vision\, the challenges of conservation in a changing climate\, and the ongoing efforts to keep Sissinghurst vibrant while preserving its historic charm. From the famed White Garden to the exquisite Rose Garden\, this lecture offers a rare glimpse into the artistry and dedication behind one of England’s most treasured landscapes and explores the enduring magic of Sissinghurst. \n\n\nTroy Scott Smith was borne in Yorkshire into a family of committed naturalists and spent his childhood exploring the geology and flora of the National Parks of England. He began his gardening at a young age\, quickly developing a style of relaxed planting that mixed native wildings together with exotics. In 1990\, after a total of 5 years studying horticulture and design\, Troy joined the National Trust\, Europe’s largest Conservation Charity. In the years since Troy has led the gardens at The Courts\, Bodnant and Sissinghurst\, where he has been Head Gardener since 2013. Troy combines his work at Sissinghurst with design and consultancy\, writing\, teaching and lecturing. Troy has recently taken on a small farm back in his home county of Yorkshire\, where he continues to gently experiment\, laying down sustainable planting for the future. \n\n\n\nVENUE\nCharleston Library Society\n164 King Street\nCharleston\, SC 29401 \nIn-Person: 6:00pm\, Lecture is preceded by a reception 5:30pm \nPurchase tickets through the Charleston Library Society at: https://charlestonlibrarysociety.org/event/sissinghurst-with-troy-scott-smith/ \nOr by phone: 843-723-9912 \nTickets: $25 members; $35 non-members
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/charleston-sissinghurst-with-troy-scott-smith/
LOCATION:Charleston Library Society\, 164 King St\, Charleston\, SC\, 29401\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/white-garden-sissinghurst.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250417T181500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250417T200000
DTSTAMP:20250310T165434Z
CREATED:20250310T165434Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250310T165434Z
UID:10000200-1744913700-1744920000@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:NYC | George Frideric Handel at Home
DESCRIPTION:In 1723\, the composer George Frideric Handel moved into a new built house on Brook Street in Mayfair\, London. He would live there for 36 years\, dying in his own bed at the age of 74. From 1723\, all of his music\, beginning with the opera Giulio Cesare and including Messiah and all his great oratorios\, was composed in this house. Handel rehearsed his singers in his upstairs music room\, attracting friends and neighbors who listened. The maestro even sold his music from his front parlor. Besides being a nexus for his compositions\, Handel also hosted dinners at Brook Street and musicales—reciprocating evenings in the homes of his friends—and displayed his art collection in his home. Professor Emeritus (MIT) Ellen Harris will trace George Frideric Handel’s footsteps and activities during his life on Brook Street in London. \n \nEllen T. Harris is Class of 1949 Professor Emeritus at MIT and Visiting Professor at The Juilliard School. Her work includes the award-winning books George Frideric Handel: A Life with Friends (Norton\, 2014) and Handel as Orpheus: Voice and Desire in the Chamber Cantatas (Harvard\, 2001). Her research on Handel’s finances won the Westrup Prize in 2004. She has performed with John Williams and the Boston Pops and sung the National Anthem at Fenway Park. She is currently preparing a book on performing Handel’s operas. \nTickets: $35 members*; $45 non-members\n*Membership discount applied automatically when logged into your Royal-Oak.org account \nAddress: General Society Library\, 20 W. 44th St. New York\, NY 10036
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/nyc-george-frideric-handel-at-home/
LOCATION:The General Society Library\, 20 W. 44th Street\, New York City\, 10036\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Handel-drawing.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250512T181500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250512T200000
DTSTAMP:20250430T202752Z
CREATED:20250310T160453Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T202752Z
UID:10000208-1747073700-1747080000@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:NYC | J.M.W. Turner at Petworth
DESCRIPTION:The Carved Room\, with the four paintings by Turner at Petworth House and Park\, West Sussex. The carvings are by Grinling Gibbons.  \nThe year 2025 marks the 250th anniversary of the birth of Joseph Mallord William Turner (1775– 1851)\, one of the most admired and influential British artists. J.M.W. Turner had a unique relationship with George O’Brien Wyndham\, the 3rd Earl of Egremont\, who inherited Petworth House and Park\, West Sussex\, in 1763—now an NT property. The artist was a frequent house guest and was free to explore the house and estate\, drawing great inspiration from the beauty of Petworth’s interiors\, collections\, and landscape. As a collector of British art\, the 3rd Earl was a great patron and host to many contemporary artists such as Turner\, John Constable\, and C.R. Leslie. Turner’s extraordinary talent\, combined with the unique opportunity to work at Petworth\, allowed him to produce detailed pictorial descriptions of the great house and estate. These masterpieces can be seen at Petworth in the original devised for them after being reinstated in the early 2000s. Join Dr. John Chu\, NT Senior Curator of Pictures and Sculpture\, as he examines Turner’s works which illustrate what life was like at Petworth almost 200 years ago. He will also discuss  the upcoming NT exhibition Turner’s Vision at Petworth (June 21–November 16\, 2025)\, and the artist’s relationship with the Earl and demonstrate the impact this extraordinary house and landscape had on one of Britain’s celebrated artists. \nJohn Chu was appointed Senior Curator of Pictures and Sculpture for Midlands at the National Trust\, UK in 2021. He joined the NT in 2015 as Assistant Curator of Pictures and Sculpture and worked on exhibitions at Osterley\, Powis Castle\, and Basildon Park among other properties. He also worked on permanent re-displays of state rooms at The Vyne\, Hampshire and Knole\, Kent. He graduated from Cambridge University and received a Master of Arts and Ph.D. from Courtauld Institute of Art\, London University. He was a visiting lecturer from University of Reading and an Associate Lecturer at Courtauld Institute of Art. He was a Post-Doctoral Fellow at The Paul Mellon Center for Studies in British Art. \nLocation: CDA Abigail Adams Smith Ballroom\, 417 E. 61st Street\nNew York\, NY  10065 \nIn-Person: 6:15pm (ET)\, Lecture will be followed by a reception\nTickets: $35 members*; $45 non-members\n*Membership discount applied automatically when logged into your Royal-Oak.org account \nNote: This lecture will be in-person only\, with no rental recording.
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/nyc-j-m-w-turner-at-petworth/
LOCATION:CDA Abigail Adams Smith Auditorium\, 417 East 61st Street\, New York City\, NY\, 10065\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/1367667.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250603T181500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250603T200000
DTSTAMP:20250603T180230Z
CREATED:20250521T183226Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250603T180230Z
UID:10000214-1748974500-1748980800@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:CANCELED - NYC | Revealing Forgotten Stories through Conservation
DESCRIPTION:This in-person program has been canceled. You can register for the recording at: https://www.royal-oak.org/event/zoom-rental-revealing-forgotten-stories-through-conservation/\nThe National Trust cares for over 500 historic places\, many of which have been central to defining moments in history. Yet\, beyond the famous places and historical figures that remain touchstones of our cultural legacy\, the Trust also cares for a vast collection of over one million objects. As the Royal Oak Foundation Conservation Studio has become a pioneering hub for the preservation of the NT’s collection\, it is no surprise that conservators have made new discoveries about NT objects through close observation and technical study. Conservation projects span a remarkable range—from some of the Trust’s smallest yet most iconic treasures\, like the plate of ham featured in Beatrix Potter’s The Tale of Two Bad Mice\, to large-scale\, multi-disciplinary undertakings such as the restoration of the upholstered Dolphin Chairs from Ham House. These efforts have not only preserved but also identified and revealed original surfaces and colours once thought lost. Our conservators’ work continues to deepen understanding of art history\, revealing everything from previously unnoticed alterations in Jacob Tintoretto’s The Wise and Foolish Virgins\, c.1546\, at Upton House to fresh evidence of Claude Monet’s working methods in Charing Cross Bridge (1902) at Chartwell. In her in-person NYC lecture\, Emma S. will update ROF members and friends and speak about new and upcoming conservation projects at the ROF Studio. She will also describe some of the hidden stories uncovered by conservators that have added new layers of significance and interest to objects in the NT’s collection.
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/nyc-revealing-forgotten-stories-through-conservation/
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/conservation-studio-banner.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251022T181500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251022T200000
DTSTAMP:20251022T175510Z
CREATED:20250903T143532Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251022T175510Z
UID:10000242-1761156900-1761163200@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:NYC | Modern Aristocrats: Ancestral Houses and Their Stories
DESCRIPTION:The history of England and the British people is inextricably linked with the stories of its leading aristocratic dynasties\, and the seats they have occupied for centuries. These houses have survived great wars\, economic upheavals\, and at times scandal and tragedy. James Reginato\, writer-at-large for Vanity Fair\, will showcase several of his favorite British stately homes\, in England\, Ireland\, Italy\, and the Caribbean. He will tell the behind-the-scenes stories and also illustrate their interiors—such as Broughton Castle\, home of the 21st Baron Saye and Sele and The Grove in Oxfordshire\, home of Countess Mountbatten of Burma and Lady Pamela Hicks. Mr. Reginato will then join architectural historian and editor George McNeely to discuss the history of these aristocratic families and their country houses. They will also answer questions about how these modern stewards and new generation of aristocrats keep these stately homes going in high style. \nJames Reginato has been a writer-at-large for Vanity Fair since 2009. He has landed rare interviews with some of the world’s most elusive individuals in their extraordinary homes including Bunny Mellon\, King Charles III (then Prince of Wales)\, Highness Prince Karim\, the Aga Khan and others. A contributing editor of Sotheby’s Magazine he has also served as Editor-at-Large for Architectural Digest. His work appears in WSJ\, Town & Country\, The Financial Times and W Magazine where he was previously the Features Director. Mr. Reginato received a B.A. from Columbia University. He is the author of Growing up Getty: The Story of America’s Most Unconventional Dynasty. His first book\, Great Houses\, Modern Aristocrats\, on which his lecture is based\, presents an intimate look at some of Great Britain’s stateliest houses and the families who live inside them. \nGeorge McNeely is an architectural historian\, editor\, and charity auctioneer. He graduated from Princeton University and has an MBA from Columbia Business School. He was Vice President for Strategic & International Affairs at World Monuments Fund until 2016. Previously\, he worked for 15 years at Christie’s Auction House as a Senior Vice President in Business Development. He regularly lectures about the history of art and architecture\, the art and auction market\, and cultural heritage preservation. \nOnline ticketing is now closed. Please call 212-480-2889 x200 to purchase tickets by phone or tickets can be purchased at the door.  \nTickets: $35 members*; $45 non-members\n*Membership discount applied automatically when logged into your Royal-Oak.org account
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/nyc-modern-aristocrats-ancestral-houses-and-their-stories/
LOCATION:The General Society Library\, 20 W. 44th Street\, New York City\, 10036\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/oGG0gWR6.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251117T181500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251117T200000
DTSTAMP:20251113T215639Z
CREATED:20250903T143543Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251113T215639Z
UID:10000223-1763403300-1763409600@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:NYC | Extravagant to Elegant: Dining at the English Table (1900-1938)
DESCRIPTION:©National Trust Images/Andreas von Einsiedel \nKing Edward VII was on the British throne as the 20th century swept into England. Already 59 years old\, the new monarch continued the late Victorian fashion for considerable material consumption and fine dining. Faster modes of transport\, along with the spread of the British Empire\, gave rise to the availability of exotic foods served at the English table. Transatlantic marriages also brought American wealth into the dining rooms of aristocratic households. The result was a decade of lavish dining on a grand scale\, with a complex series of courses using specialized tableware and expensive decorations. In this lecture\, Dr. Sarah Coffin will explain how this elaborate dining method was expressed in the fashionable hotel restaurants in London\, as well as in the country houses of the Edwardian elite. She will mark the transformation of British dining culture from the Edwardian era through the interwar years—when the table became both a canvas for creativity and a symbol of changing times. She will discuss how WWI brought about dining changes as well as the introduction of new materials—such as stainless steel. She will illustrate how the increased use of the motor car led to fancy picnic baskets for fashionable feasting outside. Finally\, she will discuss the changes in the 1930s that brought modern dining elegance outside the dining room. \nSarah Coffin is a decorative arts and design consultant\, curator\, and lecturer. She has extensively researched and explored the interaction of culinary design and history. From 2003-2018\, Sarah Coffin was Senior Curator and Head of the Product Design and Decorative Arts Department\, at Cooper Hewitt\, Smithsonian Museum. Previously she worked at the Victoria & Albert Museum\, London\, and the Metropolitan Museum\, NYC prior to becoming a Vice President and Decorative Arts Representative at Sotheby’s. Her tenure at Cooper Hewitt included her curation of the exhibition Feeding Desire: Design and Tools of the Table\, 1500-2005\, which explored the significant role of flatware and cutlery as design objects that impacted social mores and cuisine. Her other curated exhibitions (and authorship of exhibition catalogues) include The Jazz Age: American Style in the 1920s; Set in Style: The Jewelry of Van Cleef & Arpels; and Rococo: The Continuing Curve\, 1730-2008 among others. She has taught and/or lectured at NYU\, George Washington University\, Yale\, Bard Graduate Center\, and Parsons School of Design\, as well as to numerous museum and private groups. \nTickets: $35 members*; $45 non-members\n*Membership discount applied automatically when logged into your Royal-Oak.org account
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/nyc-extravagant-to-elegant-dining-at-the-english-table-1900-1938/
LOCATION:The General Society Library\, 20 W. 44th Street\, New York City\, 10036\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/1023675.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251203T181500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251203T200000
DTSTAMP:20251015T210418Z
CREATED:20250903T144045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251015T210418Z
UID:10000227-1764785700-1764792000@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:NYC | Mistress of Hardwick: Elizabeth\, Countess of Shrewsbury
DESCRIPTION:The Blue Room at Hardwick Hall\, Derbyshire. Hardwick Hall was built in the late 16th century for Bess of Hardwick. \nBorn in the quiet hills of Derbyshire\, Elizabeth Hardwick—known to history as “Bess of Hardwick”—rose to become one of the wealthiest and most influential women in Elizabethan England. Through four strategic marriages\, keen business sense\, and sharp political instincts\, Bess secured power and status in a world dominated by men. After marrying Sir William Cavendish\, Bess acquired the Chatsworth estate and began a lifelong passion for building and property. Her later marriage to George Talbot\, Earl of Shrewsbury\, placed her at the heart of national politics. The couple orchestrated dynastic marriages between their children and became embroiled in the imprisonment of Mary\, Queen of Scots—an assignment that ultimately fractured their marriage. Defiant and independent\, Bess returned to Derbyshire and constructed her crowning achievement: the magnificent Hardwick Hall\, “more glass than wall.” From there\, she championed her granddaughter Arbella Stuart as a potential heir to the English throne\, navigating the dangerous politics of succession with remarkable skill. Carol Ann Lloyd will explore Bess’s extraordinary rise\, her role in Tudor court life\, and her enduring legacy as a masterful strategist\, builder\, and matriarch of a powerful dynasty. \n\nCarol Ann Lloyd\, is a popular speaker who shares the stories of Shakespeare and English history. She is the former Manager of Visitor Education at Folger Shakespeare Library\, where she gave workshops and tours about Shakespeare and Early Modern England. Her podcast\, British History: Royals\, Rebels\, and Romantics\, explores the lives of famous and infamous characters in history. Her book Tudors by the Numbers was published in 2023\, and her latest book is Courting the Virgin Queen: Elizabeth I and Her Suitors. Carol Ann has presented programs at the Smithsonian\, Folger Shakespeare Library\, Agecroft Hall\, and TEDx\, among other venues. Ms. Lloyd is a member of the National Speakers Association.\n \n\n\n\nTickets: $35 members*; $45 non-members\n*Membership discount applied automatically when logged into your Royal-Oak.org account
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/nyc-mistress-of-hardwick-elizabeth-countess-of-shrewsbury/
LOCATION:The General Society Library\, 20 W. 44th Street\, New York City\, 10036\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/1852879.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251215T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251215T200000
DTSTAMP:20251215T192908Z
CREATED:20251105T154221Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251215T192908Z
UID:10000250-1765821600-1765828800@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:LA | Fred Astaire in London
DESCRIPTION:Fred Astaire\, 1940s\, Original publicity still from former Marilyn Blaisdell Collection \nThough born in Omaha\, Nebraska\, and raised in New York City\, dancer Fred Astaire spent a significant portion of his early career in the United Kingdom. From 1922 to 1932\, he and his sister Adele captivated London audiences in three wildly popular West End musicals\, sparking a sensation so intense that critics dubbed it “Astairia.” During his time in London\, Astaire immersed himself in British culture; he studied music theory at London’s Guildhall School of Music alongside Noël Coward and socialized with the aristocracy. After a decade in London\, Adele retired from the stage to marry Lord Charles Cavendish\, the second son of the Duke of Devonshire\, and moved to Lismore Castle in Ireland. The pair’s decade of dancing and performing in London had an equally profound effect on Fred. With his new dance partner\, Claire Luce\, he expanded his repertoire\, incorporating sweeping\, romantic movements as well as an English sense of style. His impeccable fashion sense\, effortless charm\, and refined elegance—so central to his legendary dance films of the 1930s through the 1950s—were deeply influenced by the customs and style he observed while mingling with British high society and even the royal family. Victoria Kastner will explore the profound impact of Astaire’s years in the UK\, revealing how his time on the London stage helped shape the dancer\, actor\, and icon the world came to adore. \nVictoria Kastner is the leading scholar and author about the architect Julia Morgan as well as about Hearst Castle\, where she worked for 30 years and was the historian. She is the author of Hearst Castle: The Biography of a Country House\, with a foreword by George Plimpton\, published by Harry N. Abrams in 2000; Hearst’s San Simeon: The Gardens and the Land\, May 2009; and Hearst Ranch: Family\, Land and Legacy. She co-authored The Beverly Hills Hotel: The First 100 years with Robert Anderson. In 2022\, Victoria published; Julia Morgan: An Intimate Biography of the Trailblazing Architect. Ms. Kastner has lectured extensively on Julia Morgan\, Hearst’s art collection\, and the history of collection for many museums and groups: including at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York; the Museum of Fine Arts\, Boston; the Los Angeles County Museum of Art; the American Museum in Britain in Bath; and the Palace of the Legion of Honor in San Francisco. She has also written about Hearst\, San Simeon\, and Morgan for The London Telegraph\, the American Institute of Architects\, Oxford University’s Journal of the History of Collections\, and The Magazine Antiques. \nTickets can be purchased at the door. Online ticket sales have been closed.\nTickets: $35 members*; $45 non-members\nReception at 6pm; Lecture at 6:30pm \n741 S Lucerne Blvd\,\nLos Angeles\, CA 90005\n \n \n*Membership discount applied automatically when logged into your Royal-Oak.org account
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/la-fred-astaire-in-london/
LOCATION:The Ebell of Los Angeles\, 743 S Lucerne Blvd\, Los Angeles\, CA\, 90005
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/fred-astaire.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260311T181500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260311T200000
DTSTAMP:20260217T193238Z
CREATED:20260217T190055Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260217T193238Z
UID:10000257-1773252900-1773259200@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:NYC | Alice: An Extraordinary Princess
DESCRIPTION:Despite being Prince Philip’s mother\, Princess Alice of Battenberg\, was a little-known member of the British royal family who is often falsely portrayed in film and television. She lived a tumultuous life filled with tragedy but also hallmarked by charity work and incredible acts of bravery. Born congenitally deaf at Windsor Castle in 1885\, a birth witnessed by her great-grandmother Queen Victoria\, she married Prince Andrew of Greece and Denmark in 1903. From then on\, her life was overshadowed by wars\, revolutions\, and periods of exile. She suffered a nervous breakdown and was diagnosed with schizophrenia and transferred in 1930—against her will—to a sanatorium in Switzerland. Noted biographer Hugo Vickers will explore the Princess’s remarkable life and describe how she overcame seemingly unsurmountable difficulties devoting herself to charity work and helping the poor. Mr. Vickers will talk about her royal beginnings and her married and family life; explain about her hospitalization and escape; and detail her move to Athens in 1938. He will describe her charity work before and during World War II—including hiding a Jewish family at her home at great personal risk—and her foundation of the “Christian Brotherhood of Martha and Mary.” Finally\, he will illustrate her 1967 move to live with her son and his family at Buckingham Palace and discuss how her incredible philanthropic work led posthumous honors in Britain and Israel—where she is buried at the Convent of Saint Mary Magdalene in Jerusalem. Join Royal Oak as we learn about a remarkable member of the Royal family whose life was as tumultuous and extraordinary as the times in which she lived. \nHugo Vickers is well known as a biographer\, lecturer and broadcaster\, and is an acknowledged expert on the Royal Family. He has covered events from the first wedding of the Prince of Wales and other royal weddings; the funerals of the Queen Mother\, Prince Philip\, the State Funeral and Committal of The Queen; and the Coronation of Charles III. The Financial Times recently described him as ‘the most knowledgeable royal biographer on the planet.’ He has written many biographies of 20th-century figures\, including Cecil Beaton\, Vivien Leigh\, the Duchess of Windsor\, Princess Andrew of Greece\, and the Queen Mother. In 2022\, he published a book with HRH The Duke of Kent\, entitled A Royal Life. In 2024\, Mr. Vickers published a novel – Pining in Paradise – and his biography of Clarissa\, Countess of Avon (widow of PM Anthony Eden). When not writing\, he travels through the Commonwealth and Overseas Territories\, establishing Commonwealth Walkways. Mr. Vickers is a Deputy Lieutenant for the Royal County of Berkshire and Captain of the Lay Stewards of St George’s Chapel\, Windsor Castle. He has given too many lectures in too many places to keep track. \nWednesday\, March 11| 6:15 p.m. (ET) Wine and Cheese Reception Following the Lecture\nThe General Society Library\, 20 W. 44th Street\, NYC (Bet. 5th and 6th) \nIn-Person:\n$35 Members*; $45 Non-Members and Guests\n*discount applied automatically when logged into your account
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/nyc-alice-an-extraordinary-princess/
LOCATION:The General Society Library\, 20 W. 44th Street\, New York City\, 10036\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Philip_Alexius_de_Laszlo_1869-1937_-_Princess_Andrew_of_Greece_1885-1969_-_RCIN_405970_-_Royal_Collection.jpg-e1771349886445.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260312T181500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260312T200000
DTSTAMP:20260312T161426Z
CREATED:20260217T175530Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260312T161426Z
UID:10000259-1773339300-1773345600@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:Alexandria\, VA | Alice: An Extraordinary Princess
DESCRIPTION:Despite being Prince Philip’s mother\, Princess Alice of Battenberg\, was a little-known member of the British royal family who is often falsely portrayed in film and television. She lived a tumultuous life filled with tragedy but also hallmarked by charity work and incredible acts of bravery. Born congenitally deaf at Windsor Castle in 1885\, a birth witnessed by her great-grandmother Queen Victoria\, she married Prince Andrew of Greece and Denmark in 1903. From then on\, her life was overshadowed by wars\, revolutions\, and periods of exile. She suffered a nervous breakdown and was diagnosed with schizophrenia and transferred in 1930—against her will—to a sanatorium in Switzerland. Noted biographer Hugo Vickers will explore the Princess’s remarkable life and describe how she overcame seemingly unsurmountable difficulties devoting herself to charity work and helping the poor. Mr. Vickers will talk about her royal beginnings and her married and family life; explain about her hospitalization and escape; and detail her move to Athens in 1938. He will describe her charity work before and during World War II—including hiding a Jewish family at her home at great personal risk—and her foundation of the “Christian Brotherhood of Martha and Mary.” Finally\, he will illustrate her 1967 move to live with her son and his family at Buckingham Palace and discuss how her incredible philanthropic work led posthumous honors in Britain and Israel—where she is buried at the Convent of Saint Mary Magdalene in Jerusalem. Join Royal Oak as we learn about a remarkable member of the Royal family whose life was as tumultuous and extraordinary as the times in which she lived. \nHugo Vickers is well known as a biographer\, lecturer and broadcaster\, and is an acknowledged expert on the Royal Family. He has covered events from the first wedding of the Prince of Wales and other royal weddings; the funerals of the Queen Mother\, Prince Philip\, the State Funeral and Committal of The Queen; and the Coronation of Charles III. The Financial Times recently described him as ‘the most knowledgeable royal biographer on the planet.’ He has written many biographies of 20th-century figures\, including Cecil Beaton\, Vivien Leigh\, the Duchess of Windsor\, Princess Andrew of Greece\, and the Queen Mother. In 2022\, he published a book with HRH The Duke of Kent\, entitled A Royal Life. In 2024\, Mr. Vickers published a novel – Pining in Paradise – and his biography of Clarissa\, Countess of Avon (widow of PM Anthony Eden). When not writing\, he travels through the Commonwealth and Overseas Territories\, establishing Commonwealth Walkways. Mr. Vickers is a Deputy Lieutenant for the Royal County of Berkshire and Captain of the Lay Stewards of St George’s Chapel\, Windsor Castle. He has given too many lectures in too many places to keep track. \nThursday\, March 12 | 6:15 p.m. (ET)\nWine Reception Preceding the Lecture at 6:15 p.m.; Lecture beings at 6:45 p.m. \nLocation: Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum\n201 S. Washington Street\, Alexandria\, Virginia \nIn-Person:\n$35 Members*; $45 Non-Members and Guests\n*discount applied automatically when logged into your account
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/alexandria-va-alice-an-extraordinary-princess/
LOCATION:Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum\, 201 S Washington St\, Alexandria\, 22314\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Philip_Alexius_de_Laszlo_1869-1937_-_Princess_Andrew_of_Greece_1885-1969_-_RCIN_405970_-_Royal_Collection.jpg-e1771349886445.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260319T181500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260319T200000
DTSTAMP:20260319T184458Z
CREATED:20260224T203125Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T184458Z
UID:10000271-1773944100-1773950400@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:Atlanta\, GA | Alice: An Extraordinary Princess
DESCRIPTION:Despite being Prince Philip’s mother\, Princess Alice of Battenberg\, was a little-known member of the British royal family who is often falsely portrayed in film and television. She lived a tumultuous life filled with tragedy but also hallmarked by charity work and incredible acts of bravery. Born congenitally deaf at Windsor Castle in 1885\, a birth witnessed by her great-grandmother Queen Victoria\, she married Prince Andrew of Greece and Denmark in 1903. From then on\, her life was overshadowed by wars\, revolutions\, and periods of exile. She suffered a nervous breakdown and was diagnosed with schizophrenia and transferred in 1930—against her will—to a sanatorium in Switzerland. Noted biographer Hugo Vickers will explore the Princess’s remarkable life and describe how she overcame seemingly unsurmountable difficulties devoting herself to charity work and helping the poor. Mr. Vickers will talk about her royal beginnings and her married and family life; explain about her hospitalization and escape; and detail her move to Athens in 1938. He will describe her charity work before and during World War II—including hiding a Jewish family at her home at great personal risk—and her foundation of the “Christian Brotherhood of Martha and Mary.” Finally\, he will illustrate her 1967 move to live with her son and his family at Buckingham Palace and discuss how her incredible philanthropic work led posthumous honors in Britain and Israel—where she is buried at the Convent of Saint Mary Magdalene in Jerusalem. Join Royal Oak as we learn about a remarkable member of the Royal family whose life was as tumultuous and extraordinary as the times in which she lived. \nHugo Vickers is well known as a biographer\, lecturer and broadcaster\, and is an acknowledged expert on the Royal Family. He has covered events from the first wedding of the Prince of Wales and other royal weddings; the funerals of the Queen Mother\, Prince Philip\, the State Funeral and Committal of The Queen; and the Coronation of Charles III. The Financial Times recently described him as ‘the most knowledgeable royal biographer on the planet.’ He has written many biographies of 20th-century figures\, including Cecil Beaton\, Vivien Leigh\, the Duchess of Windsor\, Princess Andrew of Greece\, and the Queen Mother. In 2022\, he published a book with HRH The Duke of Kent\, entitled A Royal Life. In 2024\, Mr. Vickers published a novel – Pining in Paradise – and his biography of Clarissa\, Countess of Avon (widow of PM Anthony Eden). When not writing\, he travels through the Commonwealth and Overseas Territories\, establishing Commonwealth Walkways. Mr. Vickers is a Deputy Lieutenant for the Royal County of Berkshire and Captain of the Lay Stewards of St George’s Chapel\, Windsor Castle. He has given too many lectures in too many places to keep track. \nThursday\, March 19 | 6:15 p.m. (ET)\nLecture beings at 6:15 p.m.; Wine reception following lecture \nLocation: Spalding Nix Fine Art\n425 Peachtree Hills Ave Ste 30A\, Atlanta GA 30305 \nIn-Person: Tickets available at the door\n$35 Members*; $45 Non-Members and Guests
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/atlanta-ga-alice-an-extraordinary-princess/
LOCATION:Spalding Nix Fine Art\, 425 Peachtree Hills Ave Ste 30A\, Atlanta\, GA\, 30305\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Philip_Alexius_de_Laszlo_1869-1937_-_Princess_Andrew_of_Greece_1885-1969_-_RCIN_405970_-_Royal_Collection.jpg-e1771349886445.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260325T181500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260325T200000
DTSTAMP:20260330T141427Z
CREATED:20260217T195220Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260330T141427Z
UID:10000255-1774462500-1774468800@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:NYC | Beautifully British Interiors
DESCRIPTION:PLEASE NOTE NEW LOCATION: New York School of Interior Design\, Arthur King Satz Auditorium\, 170 E 70th Street\, NYC\nWhen people picture English country house interiors\, they often imagine warm\, inviting rooms where no detail is too small: spaces that layer antiques and heirlooms with functional family pieces; soft furnishings in colorful florals and damasks textiles; restored mouldings and traditional materials; all complemented by a thoughtful touch of contemporary art. Sims Hilditch creates interiors that epitomize the English country house look for today\, while placing equal emphasis on the functional purpose of every space. \nFounder and designer Emma Sims-Hilditch will present a selection of her firm’s recent projects\, which breathe new life into the classic English style. From a Victorian townhouse in London to an eighteenth-century country house\, a Jacobean manor\, and an apartment in London’s Old War Office\, her work demonstrates how new materials and technologies can be seamlessly combined with traditional decorative elements. The result is an accessible\, comfortable style for modern living that remains quintessentially British.\nHer latest book\, Sims Hilditch: Beautifully British Interiors (Rizzoli\, 2025)\, on which this lecture is based\, was named House Beautiful’s Best New Design Book of 2025. \nTo Purchase the Book ahead of time Visit the Rizzoli Website. \n\nOnline Ticket sales are closed. Please call 212-480-2889 x200 to purchase and a limited number of tickets will be available at the door. \nIN-PERSON\nWednesday\, March 25 | 6:15 p.m. ET\nThere will be a wine and cheese reception and book signing following the lecture. A limited number of books will be for sale at the event. \nLocation: New York School of Interior Design\, Arthur King Satz Auditorium\, 170 E 70th Street\, New York \n$35 members or with code; $45 non-members
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/nyc-beautifully-british-interiors/
LOCATION:New York School of Interior Design\, Arthur King Satz Auditorium\, 170 E 70th Street\, New York\, NY\, 10021\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Sims-Hilditch-Book-Cover-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260331T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260331T193000
DTSTAMP:20260330T141353Z
CREATED:20260218T193853Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260330T141353Z
UID:10000260-1774978200-1774985400@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:Charleston | Malice in Wonderland: Hugo Vickers on Cecil Beaton
DESCRIPTION:Visiting from the UK\, author and renowned speaker Hugo Vickers brings us Malice in Wonderland\, an investigation into the whirlwind life of the photographer\, diarist\, painter\, interiors and costume designer that was Sir Cecil Walter Hardy Beaton. Cecil Beaton invited Hugo Vickers to be his authorized biographer only days before his unexpected passing. Undeterred\, Vickers used diaries\, letters\, and precious friendships and connections in Beaton’s circle to compose\, in paper\, the story of this life well-lived. For five years\, Vickers travelled the world and talked to some of the most fascinating and important social and cultural figures of the time\, including royalty such as the Queen Mother and Princess Margaret\, Lady Diana Cooper\, Grace Kelly\, Audrey Hepburn\, Truman Capote\, Irving Penn and Diana Vreeland. As part of our ongoing partnership with The Royal Oaks Foundation\, we look forward to this special reflection and a personal exploration of the a legacy of a man enveloped by a disappearing era of glamour. \nIf you are unable to attend the event\, but would like to purchase one or more copies\, please visit Buxton Books. \nHugo Vickers is well known as a biographer\, lecturer and broadcaster\, and is an acknowledged expert on the Royal Family. He has covered events from the first wedding of the Prince of Wales and other royal weddings; the funerals of the Queen Mother\, Prince Philip\, the State Funeral and Committal of The Queen; and the Coronation of Charles III. The Financial Times recently described him as ‘the most knowledgeable royal biographer on the planet.’ He has written many biographies of 20th-century figures\, including Cecil Beaton\, Vivien Leigh\, the Duchess of Windsor\, Princess Andrew of Greece\, and the Queen Mother. In 2022\, he published a book with HRH The Duke of Kent\, entitled A Royal Life. In 2024\, Mr. Vickers published a novel – Pining in Paradise – and his biography of Clarissa\, Countess of Avon (widow of PM Anthony Eden). When not writing\, he travels through the Commonwealth and Overseas Territories\, establishing Commonwealth Walkways. Mr. Vickers is a Deputy Lieutenant for the Royal County of Berkshire and Captain of the Lay Stewards of St George’s Chapel\, Windsor Castle. He has given too many lectures in too many places to keep track. \nTuesday\, March 31 | 6:00 p.m. (ET)\nLecture is preceded by 5:30 p.m. reception \nLocation: Charleston Library Society\, 164 King Street\, Charleston \nLecture\, Reception\, & Book-signing:\n$25 Members; $35 Non-Members and guests \nClick here to register with the Charleston Library Society or go to:\nhttps://charlestonlibrarysociety.org/event/malice-in-wonderland-hugo-vickers-on-cecil-beaton/\n \nYou may also call the Charleston Library Society at 843-723-9912 to register! \nSince its founding in the Charleston Library Society has continued to strengthen the intellectual and cultural fabric of the Lowcountry as a private lending library and comfortable gathering spot for reading\, exploration of treasured collections\, scholarly research and lively programs on literature\, history\, world affairs\, and music. After 275 years\, the Charleston Library Society remains the oldest cultural institution in the South and second-oldest circulating library in the country.
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/charleston-malice-in-wonderland/
LOCATION:Charleston Library Society\, 164 King St\, Charleston\, SC\, 29401\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/hugo-beaton.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260521T181500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260521T200000
DTSTAMP:20260416T153132Z
CREATED:20260228T005125Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T153132Z
UID:10000267-1779387300-1779393600@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:NYC | Secrets and Codes in Fashion
DESCRIPTION:Bacton Altar Cloth\, Treasures of Gold and Silver Wire \nTextiles are more than a form of decorative art—they have a silent tool of rebellion\, storytelling\, and resilience. Eleri Lynn\, Curator of the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection at Historic Royal Palaces will reveal stories about these hidden histories stitched into fabric. She will explain how needlework has served as a powerful act of resistance and illustrate some extraordinary examples from the Royal School of Needlework. She will examine the cultural history behind these textiles\, talk about the individuals responsible\, and also discuss how textiles became a form of self-expression for marginalized women. \nEleri Lynn is a fashion and textiles historian\, curator\, and author. She worked in the Textiles and Fashion Department of the V&A Museum before becoming Curator of the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection at Historic Royal Palaces and Head of Exhibitions at National Museum Wales. She is a Trustee of the Royal School of Needlework. She appears frequently on TV\, most recently featuring in the BBC2 ‘Art That Made Us’ series and BBC1’s ‘Elizabeth: Fashioning a Monarch’. She is the author of several books which include Tudor Textiles (Yale University Press\, 2020). She has curated several major fashion and textiles exhibitions including The Lost Dress of Elizabeth I (Hampton Court Palace\, 2019)\, and Crown to Couture (Kensington Palace\, 2023). \nIN-PERSON\nThursday\, May 21 | 6:15 p.m. ET; reception following lecture\nThe General Society Library\, 20 W 44th Street\, New York NY 10036 \n \n$35 members; $45 non-members
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/nyc-secrets-and-codes-in-fashion/
LOCATION:The General Society Library\, 20 W. 44th Street\, New York City\, 10036\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Header-Bacton-Altar-Cloth-©-Historic-Royal-Palaces-Courtesy-of-St-Faiths-Church-Bacton-web.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260602T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260602T200000
DTSTAMP:20260603T000831Z
CREATED:20260421T223437Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T000831Z
UID:10000293-1780423200-1780430400@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:La Jolla | Hidden Treasures: Tudor Jewels Unearthed
DESCRIPTION:Queen Elizabeth I\, by English School. \nOnline Registration has now closed. If you would like to attend\, please contact Aliza at 212-480-2889 x200 or you can pay at the door.\nIn the middle of the English Civil War\, a London jeweler took advantage of one night’s darkness to secretly bury a wooden casket below his shop on Cheapside street. This box contained all his riches—hastily concealed during his escape from possible fighting. However\, the owner never returned\, and this treasure was forgotten for 300 years. In 1912\, on one of London’s busiest streets\, a work crew began to dig under the basement of a torn down building. Suddenly\, glittering rings\, brooches\, watches\, and rare enameled chains—featuring emeralds\, diamonds and pearls—were unearthed in a discovery that sounds more like fiction than reality. More than 500 pieces of rare Elizabethan and Stuart jewelry were revealed—rare surviving examples only previously known from portraiture. Carol Ann Lloyd will illustrate pieces from the Cheapside Hoard to show how 16th-and-17th-century royals and nobility used jewelry and adornment to establish and communicate power. Ms. Lloyd will explain how these objects were worn and also discuss how the gems demonstrate the impact of luxury items and global exploration in early modern England. Join us as we have a unique opportunity to look at this glittering “time-capsule” that has only been displayed twice: in 1914 and at the Museum of London in 2013. \n Carol Ann Lloyd is a popular speaker who shares the stories of Shakespeare and English history. She is the former Manager of Visitor Education at Folger Shakespeare Library. Her podcast\, British History: Royals\, Rebels\, and Romantics\, explores the lives of famous and infamous historical characters. Her latest book is Courting the Virgin Queen: Elizabeth I and Her Suitors. Carol Ann has presented programs at the Smithsonian\, Folger Shakespeare Library\, Agecroft Hall\, and TEDx\, among other venues. \n\nIN-PERSON ONLY \nTuesday\, June 2 | Lecture at 6:30 p.m. PT; Preceded by reception at 6:00 p.m. PT \n$40 members; $45 non-members \nSt. James by-the-Sea Episcopal Church\n743 Prospect St\, La Jolla CA 92037
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/la-jolla-tudor-jewels-unearthed/
LOCATION:St. James by-the-Sea Episcopal Church\, 74 Prospect Street\, La Jolla\, CA\, 92037\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Henry-Stuart-Lord-Darnley-and-Mary-Queen-of-Scots-by-British-Scottish-School-at-Hardwick-Hall-web.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260604T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260604T120000
DTSTAMP:20260603T215153Z
CREATED:20260305T193905Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T215153Z
UID:10000291-1780569000-1780574400@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:LA | Hidden Treasures: Tudor Jewels Unearthed
DESCRIPTION:This program is sold out. We will not be able to accommodate walk-in registrations. If you have any questions\, please contact Aliza at awillner@royal-oak.org or 212-480-2889 x200.\nQueen Elizabeth I\, by English School. \n\nIn the middle of the English Civil War\, a London jeweler took advantage of one night’s darkness to secretly bury a wooden casket below his shop on Cheapside street. This box contained all his riches—hastily concealed during his escape from possible fighting. However\, the owner never returned\, and this treasure was forgotten for 300 years. In 1912\, on one of London’s busiest streets\, a work crew began to dig under the basement of a torn down building. Suddenly\, glittering rings\, brooches\, watches\, and rare enameled chains—featuring emeralds\, diamonds and pearls—were unearthed in a discovery that sounds more like \nfiction than reality. More than 500 pieces of rare Elizabethan and Stuart jewelry were revealed—rare surviving examples only previously known from portraiture. Carol Ann Lloyd will illustrate pieces from the Cheapside Hoard to show how 16th-and-17th-century royals and nobility used jewelry and adornment to establish and communicate power. Ms. Lloyd will explain how these objects were worn and also discuss how the gems demonstrate the impact of luxury items and global exploration in early modern England. Join us as we have a unique opportunity to look at this glittering “time-capsule” that has only been displayed twice: in 1914 and at the Museum of London in 2013. \n\n Carol Ann Lloyd is a popular speaker who shares the stories of Shakespeare and English history. She is the former Manager of Visitor Education at Folger Shakespeare Library. Her podcast\, British History: Royals\, Rebels\, and Romantics\, explores the lives of famous and infamous historical characters. Her latest book is Courting the Virgin Queen: Elizabeth I and Her Suitors. Carol Ann has presented programs at the Smithsonian\, Folger Shakespeare Library\, Agecroft Hall\, and TEDx\, among other venues. \n \n  \n\nIN-PERSON ONLY \nThursday\, June 4 | Lecture at 11:00 a.m. PT; Coffee and Tea Reception at 10:30 a.m. PT\n743 S Lucerne Blvd\, Los Angeles\, CA 90005 \n\n$40 members; $45 non-members \n 
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/la-tudor-jewels-unearthed/
LOCATION:The Ebell of Los Angeles\, 743 S Lucerne Blvd\, Los Angeles\, CA\, 90005
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Henry-Stuart-Lord-Darnley-and-Mary-Queen-of-Scots-by-British-Scottish-School-at-Hardwick-Hall-web.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260918T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260918T190000
DTSTAMP:20260821T155258Z
CREATED:20260813T173300Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260821T155258Z
UID:10000309-1789750800-1789758000@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:Chicago | Hidden Treasures: Tudor Jewels Unearthed
DESCRIPTION:In the middle of the English Civil War\, a London jeweler took advantage of one night’s darkness to secretly bury a wooden casket below his shop on Cheapside street. This box contained all his riches—hastily concealed during his escape from possible fighting. However\, the owner never returned\, and this treasure was forgotten for 300 years. In 1912\, on one of London’s busiest streets\, a work crew began to dig under the basement of a torn down building. Suddenly\, glittering rings\, brooches\, watches\, and rare enameled chains—featuring emeralds\, diamonds and pearls—were unearthed in a discovery that sounds more like fiction than reality. More than 500 pieces of rare Elizabethan and Stuart jewelry were revealed—rare surviving examples only previously known from portraiture. Carol Ann Lloyd will illustrate pieces from the Cheapside Hoard to show how 16th-and-17th-century royals and nobility used jewelry and adornment to establish and communicate power. Ms. Lloyd will explain how these objects were worn and also discuss how the gems demonstrate the impact of luxury items and global exploration in early modern England. Join us as we have a unique opportunity to look at this glittering “time-capsule” that has only been displayed twice: in 1914 and at the Museum of London in 2013. \n\nCarol Ann Lloyd is a popular speaker who shares the stories of Shakespeare and English history. She is the former Manager of Visitor Education at Folger Shakespeare Library. Her podcast\, British History: Royals\, Rebels\, and Romantics\, explores the lives of famous and infamous historical characters. Her latest book is Courting the Virgin Queen: Elizabeth I and Her Suitors. Carol Ann has presented programs at the Smithsonian\, Folger Shakespeare Library\, Agecroft Hall\, and TEDx\, among other venues. \n\nIN-PERSON ONLY: Lecture will begin at 5:30 p.m. CT; Preceded by reception at 5:00 p.m. CT\nLocation: Freeman’s Auction House 1550 W Carroll Ave. Chicago\, IL \nTickets: $35 members; $45 non-members \n \nOr call 212-480-2889 x200
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/chicago-hidden-treasures-tudor-jewels-unearthed/
LOCATION:Freeman’s Auctions\, 1550 W Carroll Avenue\, Chicago\, IL\, 60607\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Unknown-Elizabethan-Woman-1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261001T181500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261001T200000
DTSTAMP:20260821T154147Z
CREATED:20260803T173248Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260821T154147Z
UID:10000297-1790878500-1790884800@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:NYC | Entertaining with a Side of Chaos
DESCRIPTION:British designer\, author\, and hostess India Hicks will speak about the art of gathering and entertaining\, whether it is an impromptu lunch\, a holiday celebration\, or a milestone marked with family and friends. Raised amid British tradition\, she is the daughter of Lady Pamela Hicks and the iconic designer David Hicks. After more than two decades in the design world\, Hicks has learned that memorable entertaining has little to do with perfection\, and everything to do with human connection. With her irreverent humor\, and using illustrations from her latest book\, she will share examples of both grand and intimate gatherings—from dinners that end in dessert and raucous debate\, to small tables set for two. She will also share family photos and stories\, and speak about creating a warm welcome—even if the tablecloth is not ironed. \n\nIndia Hicks is a designer\, author\, entrepreneur\, and humanitarian. Based in the Bahamas\, she continues to consult with fashion\, home\, and lifestyle brands while writing on design\, entertaining\, and family history. She has authored several books\, and her latest Entertaining with a Side of Chaos\, will be published by Rizzoli in September 2026. She serves on the Executive Board of Global Empowerment Mission\, and is a patron of The King’s Trust\, supporting programs that help young women overcome disadvantage and build new opportunities. \n\nIN-PERSON: The lecture will start at 6:15 p.m. ET with a reception and book signing following. Books will be available for purchase at the lecture. \nLocation: New York School of Interior Design\, Arthur King Satz Auditorium\, 170 E 70th Street\, New York \nTickets: $35 members or with code; $45 non-members\n \nOr call 212-480-2889 x200 \n\nAbout New York School of Interior Design\nNew York School of Interior Design is a college focused exclusively on interior design. The college offers certificate\, undergraduate\, and graduate programs for students at all stages of their careers—whether they’re just becoming familiar with the discipline\, considering a career change\, or looking to deepen knowledge in a particular area. To learn more\, visit NYSID.edu.
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/nyc-entertaining-with-a-side-of-chaos/
LOCATION:New York School of Interior Design\, Arthur King Satz Auditorium\, 170 E 70th Street\, New York\, NY\, 10021\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/p.-94-95-1-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261005T181500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261005T200000
DTSTAMP:20260813T193925Z
CREATED:20260813T193925Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T193925Z
UID:10000299-1791224100-1791230400@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:Denver | Splendor & Sociability: Robert Adam’s Country Houses
DESCRIPTION:Robert Adam was one of the greatest architects and interior designers of Georgian Britain. He introduced and popularized design based on his study of the ruins of ancient Rome\, using ancient classical ornaments\, including low relief plasterwork on ceilings and walls; carved and gilded classical motifs on furniture; and chimney pieces which incorporated classical masks\, wreaths\, and tributes. He also knew how to entice wealthy patrons into creating ambitious projects which evoked the buildings of the ancient world\, and yet worked for the most fashionable of parties\, and for family life. He created memorable interiors by his use of distinctive colors such as pink\, green\, lilac\, and straw\, within his carefully-planned dining rooms and drawing rooms\, libraries and saloons\, as well as breath-taking statue galleries. Adam’s work in British country houses resulted in some of the most memorable social spaces in history\, which also expressed the finest craftsmanship and highlighted the homeowner’s social status and fashionable taste. Architectural historian\, broadcaster\, and author Jeremy Musson will illustrate and discuss country house interiors designed or remodeled by Robert Adam such as Kedleston Hall\, Osterley Park\, Newby Hall\, Syon House\, and Saltram. \nJeremy Musson\, LLB Hons\, M.Phil\, FSA\, is an architectural historian and heritage consultant. He worked for the Victorian Society and the National Trust before joining Country Life\, in 1995\, where he was Architectural Editor in 1998-2007. He continues to contribute articles to Country Life; he is the author of several books and co-wrote and presented BBC 2’s The Curious House Guest series. A Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries\, and an affiliate lecturer at Cambridge University’s department of architecture\, he is also chairman of the Historic Houses Foundation. As a heritage consultant since 2007\, he has worked on major historic sites including St Paul’s Cathedral\, Ickworth Park\, Suffolk and Hardwick Hall\, Derbyshire. \nIn-Person: Lecture starts at 6:15 p.m.\, reception following \nLocation: Grant-Humphrey’s Mansion\, 770 Pennsylvania St\, Denver CO 80203 \nTickets: $45 Members; $55 Non-Members \n \nOr call 212-480-2889 x200
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/denver-splendor-sociability-robert-adams-country-houses/
LOCATION:Grant-Humphreys Mansion\, 770 Pennsylvania St\, Denver\, CO\, 80203\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/IMG_3164-rotated-e1786648306963.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261007T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261007T200000
DTSTAMP:20260813T191644Z
CREATED:20260813T191644Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T191644Z
UID:10000300-1791396000-1791403200@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:Philadelphia |  Splendor & Sociability: Robert Adam’s Country Houses
DESCRIPTION:Robert Adam was one of the greatest architects and interior designers of Georgian Britain. He introduced and popularized design based on his study of the ruins of ancient Rome\, using ancient classical ornaments\, including low relief plasterwork on ceilings and walls; carved and gilded classical motifs on furniture; and chimney pieces which incorporated classical masks\, wreaths\, and tributes. He also knew how to entice wealthy patrons into creating ambitious projects which evoked the buildings of the ancient world\, and yet worked for the most fashionable of parties\, and for family life. He created memorable interiors by his use of distinctive colors such as pink\, green\, lilac\, and straw\, within his carefully-planned dining rooms and drawing rooms\, libraries and saloons\, as well as breath-taking statue galleries. Adam’s work in British country houses resulted in some of the most memorable social spaces in history\, which also expressed the finest craftsmanship and highlighted the homeowner’s social status and fashionable taste. Architectural historian\, broadcaster\, and author Jeremy Musson will illustrate and discuss country house interiors designed or remodeled by Robert Adam such as Kedleston Hall\, Osterley Park\, Newby Hall\, Syon House\, and Saltram. \nWill Palin London \nJeremy Musson\, LLB Hons\, M.Phil\, FSA\, is an architectural historian and heritage consultant. He worked for the Victorian Society and the National Trust before joining Country Life\, in 1995\, where he was Architectural Editor in 1998-2007. He continues to contribute articles to Country Life; he is the author of several books and co-wrote and presented BBC 2’s The Curious House Guest series. A Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries\, and an affiliate lecturer at Cambridge University’s department of architecture\, he is also chairman of the Historic Houses Foundation. As a heritage consultant since 2007\, he has worked on major historic sites including St Paul’s Cathedral\, Ickworth Park\, Suffolk and Hardwick Hall\, Derbyshire. \n\nIn-Person: Lecture will start at 6:30 p.m. ET with reception preceding at 6:00 p.m. \nFormal business attire is required. \nLocation: The Union League of Philadelphia\, 140 South Broad St\, Philadelphia PA 19102 \nTickets: $35 Members; $45 Non-members \n \n\nOr call 212-480-2889 x200
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/philadelphia-splendor-sociability-robert-adams-country-houses/
LOCATION:The Union League of Philadelphia\, 140 S Broad Street\, Philadelphia\, PA\, 19102\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.royal-oak.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/NT22DJRP.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261008T181500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261008T200000
DTSTAMP:20260817T145608Z
CREATED:20260813T192325Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260817T145608Z
UID:10000301-1791483300-1791489600@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:NYC | Splendor & Sociability: Robert Adam’s Country Houses
DESCRIPTION:Robert Adam was one of the greatest architects and interior designers of Georgian Britain. He introduced and popularized design based on his study of the ruins of ancient Rome\, using ancient classical ornaments\, including low relief plasterwork on ceilings and walls; carved and gilded classical motifs on furniture; and chimney pieces which incorporated classical masks\, wreaths\, and tributes. He also knew how to entice wealthy patrons into creating ambitious projects which evoked the buildings of the ancient world\, and yet worked for the most fashionable of parties\, and for family life. He created memorable interiors by his use of distinctive colors such as pink\, green\, lilac\, and straw\, within his carefully-planned dining rooms and drawing rooms\, libraries and saloons\, as well as breath-taking statue galleries. Adam’s work in British country houses resulted in some of the most memorable social spaces in history\, which also expressed the finest craftsmanship and highlighted the homeowner’s social status and fashionable taste. Architectural historian\, broadcaster\, and author Jeremy Musson will illustrate and discuss country house interiors designed or remodeled by Robert Adam such as Kedleston Hall\, Osterley Park\, Newby Hall\, Syon House\, and Saltram. \nWill Palin London \nJeremy Musson\, LLB Hons\, M.Phil\, FSA\, is an architectural historian and heritage consultant. He worked for the Victorian Society and the National Trust before joining Country Life\, in 1995\, where he was Architectural Editor in 1998-2007. He continues to contribute articles to Country Life; he is the author of several books and co-wrote and presented BBC 2’s The Curious House Guest series. A Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries\, and an affiliate lecturer at Cambridge University’s department of architecture\, he is also chairman of the Historic Houses Foundation. As a heritage consultant since 2007\, he has worked on major historic sites including St Paul’s Cathedral\, Ickworth Park\, Suffolk and Hardwick Hall\, Derbyshire. \n\nIn-Person: Lecture will start at 6:30 p.m. ET with reception preceding at 6:00 p.m. \nLocation: The General Mechanics Library\, 20 W. 44th Street\, New York NY 10036 \nTickets: $35 Members; $45 Non-members \n \n\nOr call 212-480-2889 x200
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/nyc-splendor-sociability-robert-adams-country-houses/
LOCATION:The General Society Library\, 20 W. 44th Street\, New York City\, 10036\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
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ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261019T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261019T200000
DTSTAMP:20260902T172248Z
CREATED:20260717T153759Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260902T172248Z
UID:10000303-1792432800-1792440000@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:Philadelphia | London Clubs: Interiors\, Architecture\, and Art
DESCRIPTION:London has more private members’ clubs than any other city. There are clubs for every interest\, profession\, and background: from actors\, aristocrats\, architects\, artists\, and clergymen; to sailors\, soldiers\, journalists\, fishermen\, and spies. Historian and author Andrew Jones will illustrate some of the most beautiful and unusual of these clubs spanning 300 years of architecture and design. He will highlight the clubs’ original interiors and exquisite furnishings\, as well as showcase the extraordinary collections they hold. For example\, he will reveal the concealed bookcase door in the library of The Travellers Club\, show the taxidermy fish at the Flyfishers’ Club\, and discuss the club that “Winnie-the-Pooh built”. Also\, he will show some of the more intimate spaces—The Beefsteak Club’s loos are wallpapered in facsimiles of members’ signatures in the club’s candidates’ book\, while Home House lavatories display Soviet spy relics. From bohemian to bling\, shabby to chic\, quirky to grand\, Jones will celebrate the city’s strangest and most elegant private dining and drinking establishments. \n\n\nAndrew Jones is an author who has lived in Mayfair—London’s club land—for over 20 years. He is the author of The Buildings of Green Park\, A Tour of Certain Buildings\, Monuments and Other Structures in Mayfair and St. James’s. He writes about cities for the Financial Times and has also written for Apollo\, Blueprint\, Drawing Matter and The London Gardener as well as pieces on London for The World of Interiors and the Londonist. His lecture is drawn from his latest book The London Club: Architecture\, Interiors\, Art (Fall 2025). \n\n\n\n\nIN-PERSON: Lecture will begin at 6:30 p.m. ET; preceded by a reception at 6:00 p.m. ET.\nFormal business attire is required. \nLocation: The Union League of Philadelphia\, 140 Broad Street\, Philadelphia PA 19102 \nTickets: $35 members; $45 non-members\n \nOr call 212-480-2889 x200
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/philadelphia-london-clubs-interiors-architecture-and-art/
LOCATION:The Union League of Philadelphia\, 140 S Broad Street\, Philadelphia\, PA\, 19102\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
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ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261020T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261020T190000
DTSTAMP:20260902T172735Z
CREATED:20260716T143026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260902T172735Z
UID:10000294-1792517400-1792522800@www.royal-oak.org
SUMMARY:Charleston | London Clubs: Interiors\, Architecture\, and Art
DESCRIPTION:London has more private members’ clubs than any other city. There are clubs for every interest\, profession\, and background: from actors\, aristocrats\, architects\, artists\, and clergymen; to sailors\, soldiers\, journalists\, fishermen\, and spies. Historian and author Andrew Jones will illustrate some of the most beautiful and unusual of these clubs spanning 300 years of architecture and design —from the oldest clubs in London to the newest. He will highlight the clubs’ original interiors and exquisite furnishings as well as showcase the extraordinary collections they hold. For example\, he will reveal the concealed bookcase door in the library of The Travellers Club\, show the taxidermy fish at the Flyfishers’ Club\, display the nine billiard tables at The Mildmay Club\, and talk about the club that “Winnie-the-Pooh built”. Also\, he will show some of the more intimate spaces —The Beefsteak Club’s loos are wallpapered in facsimiles of members’ signatures in the club’s candidates’ book\, while Home House lavatories display relics associated with Soviet spy Anthony Blunt\, who once lived upstairs. From bohemian to bling\, shabby to chic\, quirky to grand\, Mr. Jones will celebrate the city’s strangest and most elegant private dining and drinking establishments. \n\nAndrew Jones is an author who has lived in Mayfair—London’s club land—for over 20 years. He is the author of The Buildings of Green Park\, A Tour of Certain Buildings\, Monuments and Other Structures in Mayfair and St. James’s. He writes about cities for the Financial Times and has also written for Apollo\, Blueprint\, Drawing Matter and The London Gardener as well as pieces on London for The World of Interiors and the Londonist. His lecture is drawn from his latest book The London Club: Architecture\, Interiors\, Art (Fall 2025). \n\n\nIN-PERSON: Lecture at 6:00 p.m. ET; preceded by a reception at 5:30 p.m. ET\nLocation: Charleston Library Society\, 164 King St.\, Charleston SC 29401Tickets: $30 members; $40 non-members Or Call Our Offices at 212-480-2889 x200 \n\nThank you to our wonderful partners the Charleston Library Society. \nSince its founding in 1748 the Library Society has continued to strengthen the intellectual and cultural fabric of the Lowcountry as a private lending library and comfortable gathering spot for reading\, exploration of treasured collections\, scholarly research and lively programs on literature\, history\, world affairs\, and music. After 275 years\, the Charleston Library Society remains the oldest cultural institution in the South and second-oldest circulating library in the country. A few valuable discoveries in the Library Society’s collections include a manuscript copy of The Fundamental Constitutions of Carolina in John Locke’s hand; letters by George Washington\, John Marshall\, and Alexander Hamilton; a renowned collection of early American and colonial newspapers; rare maps and nautical charts; and surprising manuscript treasures such as DuBose Heyward’s Porgy. \nVisit the website to learn more!  https://charlestonlibrarysociety.org/ \nAttendee contact information may be shared with co-sponsoring organizations. Contact ROF to opt out.
URL:https://www.royal-oak.org/event/charleston-london-clubs-interiors-architecture-art/
LOCATION:Charleston Library Society\, 164 King St\, Charleston\, SC\, 29401\, United States
CATEGORIES:In-Person Lecture
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ORGANIZER;CN="Royal Oak":MAILTO:zoom@royal-oak.org
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