by Wickhambrook History Society
At our last meeting of the season before the summer outings, we welcomed Ian Robertson who talked on the Elveden Estate and how it evolved from a country estate to a modern farm.
In 1849, Duleep Singh bought the estate for shooting, and welcomed the wealthy and entitled to stay. After his death and that of his son it was sold to the Guinness family who extended the house and have lived there ever since. The farm only existed for shooting, but soon bricks were being made on the estate and houses were built for the staff.
The estate was used for tank training during the First World War, and the American Military came to Lakenheath in the Second War. The heathland is botanically important, and home to the rare stone curlew.
The farm is now huge, with some of the most amazing machines including tractors steered by satellite! They grow cereals, potatoes and onions in great quantities in the sandy soil.
Potatoes are grown for Walker’s Crisps but Ian would not divulge which variety they use!
Most of us knew that ‘Dad’s Army was partly filmed on the estate, and we learned that ‘Vanity Fair’ was filmed there too. It is very popular for film shoots and wedding.
Next summer the Society are planning to visit the farm, church and grounds which will be a real treat.
For more information on meetings and outings, please contact the secretary on 820052 or consult the village website, wickhambrook.org