Martin Gee, Head Gardener at Weston Park, standing with an early 19th century portrait by John Weaver of Shrewsbury of his great-great-great Grandfather John Gee, called the Ploughing Match. The Gee family have lived and worked on the Weston Park Estate for the last 200 years.
Weston Park, the 17th century stately home, will host “Farming through the Ages” an informative insight into the Staffordshire and Shropshire landscape, taking place on Thursday 27th March. by e-mail to learning@weston-park.com or call 01952 852104.
The entertaining morning talk will discover how farming practices of past centuries have influenced the region’s countryside and the impact that this has had on the scenery and architecture of today’s landscape. The morning will conclude with a two-course home-cooked lunch served in the Stables Bistro Restaurant.
After lunch, visitors will have the opportunity to visit the house, gardens and park which were supported by the surrounding agricultural community.
Agricultural historian and writer, Dr Paul Stamper is a specialist in historic farming methods and agricultural buildings and has published a number of books on the subject. “Having lived in Shropshire for over 25 years and with a wide research interest in agricultural history and archaeology from Medieval to modern times, Dr Stamper is the ideal professional for this entertaining and informative talk.” explains Weston Park’s Curator, Gareth Williams.
“The counties’ landscapes have changed substantially over the years as farms have had to evolve and on occasion disappear, to meet the pressures and demands of our lives today. The talk will allow visitors to understand how and why previous farming methods were developed as needs of farmers and markets changed.”
‘Farming through the Ages’ coincides with the Year of Food and Farming Campaign which works with farmers, food producers and various organisations to help children to find out more about the countryside and where their food comes from.
Weston Park’s talk and lunch will offer visitors the opportunity to learn about their surroundings and costs £28.50 per person. Pre-booking is required by visiting www.weston-park.com
