The most dissolute man in London by Dr Gillian White
Aristocrat, politician, revolutionary , libertine….were words from the introduction so the stage was set for a very entertaining talk by Dr Gillian White about William Cavendish, 4th Earl and 1st Duke of Devonshire.
He was clearly a man whose life was full of notable events such as duels, extra-marital affairs which resulted in illegitimate children alongside his legitimate ones, his relationship with Charles II, his negative feelings towards James, Duke of York, and his opposition to King James II.
As Dr White informed us, this hot tempered man, quick to draw his sword and make a challenge to duel was a notorious gambler and womaniser, so much so that Charles II even had to warn Nell Gwynn to steer clear of him. But Dr White told us how his reputation was salvaged by his political career as an opponent of royal authority and strong supporter of the Protestant religion. Cavendish was instrumental in bringing William of Orange to the English throne and was richly rewarded as a result.
One legacy of this was the remodelling of the Elizabethan house and gardens at Chatsworth , the Devonshire family home, and its gradual development into the grand estate in Derbyshire that so many of us have visited today. It is acknowledged as the first Baroque-style building in England. The family motto, “Safe through Caution,” is inscribed in gold leaf across the top of the facade, contrasting with William Cavendish’s lifestyle!
Dr White included contemporary prints and portraits as well as current images of the house’s grounds and gardens, exterior and interior in her presentation, and her clear diction and voice projection along with dramatic story telling ensured that all members enjoyed a fascinating afternoon.
Those who heard the talk will have no doubt gained a fresh perspective of Cavendish during in Restoration England and a renewed appreciation of Chatsworth, with perhaps like me, a desire to visit again.
Sally Whyte Speaker Coordinator u3apershoresally@gmail.com