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Creating a growing legacy
For the past 80 years, Winterbourne’s garden has been in the hands of University of Birmingham. Before then, it was lovingly tended to by Winterbourne’s last private owner, John Nicolson. Head Gardener Dan reflects on how Nicolson’s impact has shaped the garden into the one so beloved by all who tread its paths today. I
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The last man behind Winterbourne: the life of John Nicolson
John Macdonald Nicolson (1869 – 1944) was a passionate gardener, and it was likely the extensive garden that attracted him to Winterbourne when it came up for sale in 1925. He was responsible for some of the garden’s most popular features, including the Japanese bridge and tea house, and the pergola. In this article, archives
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The GKN women that helped win the war
Women were sometimes the unsung heroes of World War II. Working tirelessly behind the scenes to manufacture the nuts and bolts for weapons and machinery, their work contributed as much to the war effort as those on the frontline. Our curator Henrietta took a deep dive into our Guest, Keen & Nettlefold (GKN) archive to
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Celebrating Valentine’s Day
Today, Valentine’s Day is – for many – a time for loved ones to exchange gifts. But the 14 February celebration hasn’t always been about showering the one you love with sweet treats and gifts. It was once a time of haphazard matchmaking and more modest displays of affection, as this excerpt from Hamish Hendry’s
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Ringing in the New Year
How do you celebrate the arrival of a new year? While traditions haven’t changed that much over the years, New Year’s Eve hasn’t always been the main event. In the Elizabethan period it was all about exchanging presents on New Year’s Day. But there’s more to this sixteenth-century practice than meets the eye. This excerpt