Dorothy Popham’s dynastic dream
The eighteenth century was a century of ‘improvement’ and the Popham family invested up to £60,000 over forty-two years in building a grand new mansion on their estate at Hunstrete in Somerset. Yet by 1836, the house had been torn down, despite the best efforts of the widow, Dorothy Popham. All that remained was a set of arches. Why?
As part of a Time Team program about the dig at Hunstrete, Professor Elaine Chalus, who was the historical advisor, sheds light on the mystery of the house and its owner, a formidable Georgian widow with a dynastic dream.
Listen to the interview on YouTube.