We celebrated Christmas as Graham Baron Ash would have done with his family at National Trust Packwood House It took us back 100 years to a time at the end of the First World War as people returned home from fighting, it was also a time of remembrance for those who did not return.
Christmas Trees were decorated with traditional 1918 style paperchains, paper snowflakes, Cinnamon bundles and sliced oranges, all lovingly homemade and handcrafted by volunteers.
In the parlour was a sea of Poppies to commemorate the centenary of the end of the First World War. Over the last 4 months volunteers, staff and visitors made over 2,000 paper Poppies for the display. It was breathtaking and very moving.
A magnificent bushy Christmas tree stood proud in the Great Hall covered in Reds and Golds. Floral arrangements were placed around the room scattered with paper Pointsetta flowers.
As usual my favourite room, the Dining Room did no disappoint. The tree looked superb and the velvet stocking hung over the fire were very luxurious. I don’t know what it is about the room but i always feel very emotional in here, as well as desperate to have a roaring log fire, glass of red wine and a good book to curl up with.
By late afternoon it was raining heavily so only managed to see the Kictchen garden Acorn people and into the restaurant for hot chocolate and cake. Lovely day and a great outing wearing my newly crocheted Christmas hat.
The late 17th century hall is decorated in tradional Regency style (1811 – 1820) which means no Christmas trees, trees didn’t really come into fashion until 1848. Christmas was a time when the fortunate would welcome guests onto their estates and to share celebrations. The emphasis was all about visiting family, friends and playing games. There was no focus on presents being gifted, although presents were given they weren’t the feature of the day unlike how Christmas’ have now become.
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