8th June 1987 SS
Poignant Reminder at graveside
TOGETHER, in life and in death… a poignant reminder at the graveside of the Earl and Countess of Harrowby in the churchyard at the 11th century church of All Saints, Sandon.
Dudley, the 6th Earl of Harrowby, had his name and date of birth included in the inscription on the headstone afer his wife, Helene Blanche, died 13 years ago.
A space was left for the date of his own death to be added at the appropriate time.
The Earl died recently at the age of 94 at his home, Sandon Hall, and, following his last wishes, his ashed were carried to the graveside to be mingled with those of Lady Harrowby.
The devoted couple married in January, 1922, at St. Peter’s in Easton-square, London.
Fifty years later, in 1972, spring flowers in all shades of gold decorated All Saints as they reaffirmed their marriage vows to mark their golden wedding.
Newcastle reader Mrs. Florence Garner remembers, with affection, visiting the hall as a W.E.A. class member 18 years ago.
“The Earl was a fine English gentlemen of a fast disappearing old school,” says 88-year-old Mrs. Garner.
“I have never forgotten the unexpected pleasure that visit gave me.
“We were accompanied on the tour of the hall by a huge black dog. I had been told he was blind, but I found it difficult to believe.
“After the Earl had shown us one of his treasures, the dog led the way to the next piece on display, never making the slightest mistake or colliding with anything. This went on all afternoon.
“I often wonder what gave me the most pleasure — the kindness and friendship of the Earl, the undeniable beauty of his treasures or being taken on a conducted out by a much loved dog.”
Reach PLC. Image created courtesy of THE BRITISH LIBRARY BOARD
