Sit down with Derek Adlam for a Christmas talk over mince pies, learn about the annual servants’ ball at Welbeck Abbey.
Sat at a table spread with a feast of historic photographs and objects, Derek will share his extensive research into life as a servant at Welbeck in the 19th century.
During the talk, you’ll get to see this 19th century beer dispenser which would have been wheeled up and down the table in the servant’s hall during mealtimes. It is inscribed with phrases like ‘Waste not Want not’ – a motto that the Welbeck servants seemed to live by.
A japanned, gilt, and painted wood Beer Dispenser © Harley Foundation, The Portland Collection
Derek Adlam
Derek Adlam is the Curator Emeritus of The Portland Collection, author of Tunnel Vision: The Enigmatic 5th Duke of Portland and The Great Collector: Edward Harley, 2nd Earl of Oxford, and enjoys living in his historic Welbeck estate home.
