The Edgcumbes : The Rise Of A Fascinating Family And Their Gentle Descent

Clive Charlton: I taught geography at the University of Plymouth for over 40 years, but since retirement, I have also become more interested in local and maritime history. I am chair of the Bere Local History Group and have lived at Bere Ferrers for over 50 years.

TALK: The talk will explore the history of the Edgcumbe family from their origins as Devon yeoman farmers through their rise to regional and even national prominence by the 18th and 19th centuries to their current less high-profile status as citizens of New Zealand. They became increasingly wealthy and significant, culminating in the creation of the Earldom of Mount Edgcumbe in the late 18th century. From their main local bases at Cotehele House and Mount Edgcumbe, the family produced a varied cast of colourful characters. Their story has been of fortunate marriages, land ownership and useful connections with royalty. However, the 20th century brought a series of challenges and misfortunes.