The Royal Oak Foundation

Zoom Rental | Lady Pamela: My Mother's Extraordinary Life with India Hicks
2024-10-01 - 2024-12-31 | Zoom Recording, Virtual, New York, NY, 10036, United States
Lady Pamela: My Mother’s Extraordinary Life with India Hicks, British designer and author
Tuesday, October 1 | Available as of 12:00 p.m. (ET)

For years, British designer and author India Hicks has been sharing anecdotes about the life of her mother, Lady Pamela Hicks. Join Royal Oak as India chronicles the life of ‘Lady P’ (as she is affectionately known), the daughter of the 1st Earl Mountbatten of Burma, the last viceroy of India. Lady Pamela was a first cousin to Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, and served as a bridesmaid and lady-in-waiting to Queen Elizabeth II, before marrying legendary interior designer David Hicks. Sifting through her parents’ archives, India has uncovered a new trove of material about her mother, including letters from the Queen; images of the houses and gardens in which she lived; details of her work during Indian independence; stories about her marriage to David Hicks and the houses he designed; and details of her father’s assassination in Ireland. India will also speak about the lessons she has learned from her mother while offering a tribute to Lady Pamela’s extraordinary life for lovers of history, royal watchers, and all style enthusiasts.

India Hicks, a humanitarian, designer, and author, has led an unexpected life. Growing up as the daughter of decorator David Hicks and goddaughter of King Charles, she comes from both British and design royalty. She has authored four design books and consults with fashion, home and lifestyle brands. India has lived in the Bahamas for the past 27 years, where she raised her five children. She now works on the fringes of fashion and the front lines of disaster relief. She partnered with the disaster relief agency ‘Global Empowerment Mission” in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian. She joined GEM’s Executive Board in 2020, traveling to the Ukraine to aid with refugee relief and provide emergency supplies. She also is a patron for The Prince’s Trust and works to help young women who face disadvantages transform their lives.

In-Person:
Tickets: $20 members*; $30 non-members
*Membership discount applied automatically when logged into your Royal-Oak.org account

Zoom Rental | London's River: A Day on the Thames Clipper Virtual Tour
2024-10-02 - 2024-12-31
London’s River: A Day on the Thames Clipper
Zoom Rental
Wednesday, October 2 | 12:00 p.m. ET
The Thames holds a central place in British history, earning the poetic moniker “liquid history” by John Burns. It has hosted major annual events like the Henley Royal Regatta and the Boat Race and served as a venue for two Summer Olympic Games. Rob Smith will virtually lead us as we explore London’s iconic Thames Clipper River buses for an unforgettable journey along England’s longest river entirely within its borders. Whether you are a visitor or a local, cruising the Thames offers a unique perspective on the city’s history and landmarks. This virtual tour not only showcases the scenic routes but also unveils significant events and cultural highlights along its storied banks. Starting from Deptford, admire the historic Royal Navy buildings, a reminder of London’s maritime legacy. Glide past Greenwich, home to the elegant Queens House and rich naval history, before reaching the Royal Woolwich Arsenal, symbolizing Britain’s industrial past and military strength. “Sail” this iconic waterway, offering a glimpse into London’s past and present
Tickets: $30 Members*; $40 Non-Members
*Membership discount applied automatically when logged into your Royal-Oak.org account

Zoom Rental | Pamela Harriman: A Life of Power, Seduction, and Intrigue with Sonia Purnell
2024-10-17 12:00 - 2024-12-31 13:00 (America/New_York)
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.

Sonia 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.
Tickets: $20 members and co-sponsors*; $30 non-members
*Use co-sponsor code at checkout, membership discount applied automatically when logged into your Royal-Oak.org account

Zoom Rental | The Irish Country House with Robert O'Byrne
2024-10-18 12:00 - 2024-12-31 13:00
Irish country houses have a distinct character and personality, often whimsical and quirky and not following the stereotypical English country house style. In his lecture based on his new book, The Irish Country House: A New Vision, historian and author Robert O’Byrne highlights the eclecticism of Ireland’s historic interiors. He will showcase a mix of historical Irish estates as well as contemporary restorations to offer a fresh perspective on the beauty of these homes. He will explore some of Ireland’s most interesting and unusual interiors, from derelict estates to historic hunting lodges, and from an Irish castle renovated by a Mexican financier to an
Elizabethan Revival house transformed by a contemporary artist. He will illustrate a mansion in Westmeath, restored by the descendants of its original owners, and show Coollattin, Ireland’s largest country house at 65,000 square feet, where the Baroque style is emphasized by its unfinished state. By delving into these remarkable interiors, O’Byrne offers a new understanding of the cultural and historical significance embedded within Ireland’s country houses.
Robert O’Byrne, Noted Author
Robert O’Byrne is a writer and lecturer specialising in the fine and decorative arts. He is the author of more than a dozen books, among them Luggala Days: The Story of a Guinness House (Cico Books); Romantic Irish Homes, Romantic English Homes: A Tribute to Desmond FitzGerald, 29th Knight of Glin (Lilliput Press), and The Irish Aesthete: Ruins of Ireland (2019). A former Vice-President of the Irish Georgian Society and trustee of the Alfred Beit Foundation, he is currently a trustee of the Apollo Foundation. Among other work, he writes a monthly column for Apollo magazine, and contributes to each issue of the quarterly Irish Arts Review.
Tickets: $15 members*; $25 non-members
*Membership discount applied automatically when logged into your Royal-Oak.org account

Zoom Rental | History of London Theatres Virtual Tour
2024-10-23 12:00 - 2024-12-31 13:00
History of London Theatres
Zoom Rental

Wednesday, October 23 | 12:00 p.m. ET
The entire world is a stage in London theatreland! Competing with New York City as the greatest place to see theatre in the English-speaking world, London offers a rich and varied theatrical experience. Stephen Benton will guide us on a digital journey through the history and splendor of theatrical London. Travel back to the 16th century and explore the world of Shakespeare’s playhouses, learning why these iconic buildings no longer stand. Discover historic playhouses over 200 years old, iconic Victorian palaces of marble and gilt, sleek Art Deco buildings, stark mid-20th-century concrete theatres, and the most cutting-edge 21st-century venues. Each theatre has its own fabulous stories and unique charm. With around 45 West End theatres and countless smaller venues, London boasts an impressive array of theatrical options. At any given time, you can find around 25 different musicals, including the world’s longest-running musical, “Les Misérables,” which first opened in 1985 and has performed over 15,000 shows with no signs of closing. Even more enduring is “The Mousetrap,” which opened in 1952 and has played nearly 30,000 performances, continuing its record-breaking run. Join Stephen Benton and tread the
boards in London’s theatreland, experiencing the magic and history of one of the world’s most vibrant theatrical landscapes.

Tickets: $30 Members*; $40 Non-Members
*Membership discount applied automatically when logged into your Royal-Oak.org account

Zoom Rental | British Consorts: From the Complicated to the Controversial
2024-10-24 12:00 - 2024-12-31 13:00
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.
Carol Ann Lloyd, Historian and Lecturer
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, 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.

Tickets: $20 members*; $30 non-members
*Membership discount applied automatically when logged into your Royal-Oak.org account

Zoom Rental | Alleys and Lanes of Hampstead Virtual Tour
2024-10-30 12:00 - 2024-12-31 13:00
Alleys and Lanes of Hampstead
Zoom Rental
Wednesday, October 30 | 12:00 p.m. ET
Hampstead Heath ponds
Join us on an immersive virtual tour through the charming and intricate network of alleys and lanes in the heart of old Hampstead. Discover how this picturesque village evolved from a fashionable 18th-century spa into a thriving community with vibrant social amenities in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Experience Hampstead’s rich history as we explore its historic houses, quaint cottages, notable monuments, and significant institutions. Virtually wander through the scenic lanes and uncover the stories behind each corner. From the comfort of your home, enjoy a fully accessible tour that brings the essence of Hampstead to life. Our guide, Marilyn Greene, is a former curator of Hampstead Museum with many years of experience researching the history and streets of this beloved area. She will share fascinating anecdotes and insights about the places and people who have shaped Hampstead over the centuries.
Tickets: $30 Members*; $40 Non-Members
*Membership discount applied automatically when logged into your Royal-Oak.org account

Zoom Rental | Mrs. Greville at Polesden Lacey with Alice Strickland & Anna Vesaluoma
2024-11-06 12:00 - 2024-12-31 13:00
Margaret Anderson, The Hon. Mrs Ronald Greville DBE (1863-1942) by Emile-Auguste Carolus-Duran (Lille 1838 – Paris 1917)
Margaret Greville (1863-1942) was a wealthy heiress and a member of the aristocracy through her marriage to the Hon. Ronald Greville, the heir of an old political dynasty. Following her marriage, Margaret entered the glamorous social set that surrounded the Prince of Wales, the future King Edward VII, who commented on her ‘positive genius for hospitality.’ Margaret’s money and position was a powerful combination in Edwardian Britain, and while she was a successful hostess, Margaret was also a significant collector. Polesden Lacey in Surrey now houses the extraordinary collection Margaret created for both her London townhouse and her country estate. At both residences she worked with the interior decorators Mèwes and Davis and White, Allom & Company to create lavish interiors for the display of her collection. Margaret’s objets d’art collection included carvings by Cartier and Fabergé and provided a dazzling display for her guests and visitors. Once Margaret came into her inheritance in 1913, she complemented her father’s collection of Dutch 17th century paintings with the addition of Italian Medieval and Renaissance religious works and European and British portraits. In 1942, Margaret Greville bequeathed Polesden Lacey to the National Trust ‘for the largest number of people to have enjoyment thereof,’ anticipating that her collections would be combined ‘to form a Picture and Art Gallery’. The life-size portrait of
Front of Polesden Lacey, Surrey
Lady Greville, by society portraitist Emile-August Carolus-Duran (1838- 1917), was recently returned to Polesden Lacey in 2024 following conservation at The Royal Oak Foundation Conservation Studio at Knole. Dr Alice Strickland, a curator for the NT in London and the South East, will speak about Lady Greville and her life at Polesden Lacey while Anna Vesaluoma, a Paintings Conservator for the NT, will delve into the meticulous conservation of this painting and the incredible results. Now re-displayed at Poleden Lacey in its rightful place on the loggia staircase, the portrait remains a record and symbol of Greville’s incredible legacy.
Anna Vesalouma
Anna Vesalouma is a Paintings Conservator for the National Trust, based at the Royal Oak Foundation Conservation Studio on the property of Knole House, Kent. During her time at the ROF Conservation Studio, Anna has treated a wide range of paintings from across National Trust properties, including works by Carolus-Duran, John Singer Sargent, George Romney and Melchior D’Hondecoeter. Before joining the Trust, Anna worked two years as a painting conservation fellow at the Yale University Art Gallery, in New Haven, Connecticut, where she focused on the conservation of American paintings. She holds a postgraduate degree in the Conservation of Easel Paintings from the Courtauld Institute of Art, London, and a BA (Hons) in Painting from the University of Edinburgh.
Dr Alice Strickland
Dr. Alice Strickland is a curator for the National Trust in London and the South East. Her doctorate considered British women artists of the Second World War and she was awarded a Paul Mellon research grant for a publication on women artists of the First World War. Her publications include contributions to Laura Knight a Celebration (Penlee exhibition catalogue, 2021) and Learning from the Masters (Ashgate, 2013). Her book Laura Knight 2019) forms part of a series on Modern Women Artists published by Eiderdown Books.

Tickets: $15 members*; $25 non-members
*Membership discount applied automatically when logged into your Royal-Oak.org account
