Lady Palmer’s Lost Key

Object Description

The late Victorian period part-barrel shafted steel key with an attached linen label hand written for Lady Palmer, Dorney Court, Windsor, with a one penny postage stamp and inked stamp for Manchester 1890 to the reverse.

Object History

Unknown.

Object Literature

Dorney Court is one of England’s finest stately homes. It is a Grade 1 listed building, renowned for its architectural importance and historical significance. The house was built in the 15th century, the Tudor Manor House has been lived in by the Palmer family for more than 450 years and has been passed from father to son over thirteen generations.

“Dorney” is the ancient Saxon word for “island of bees” and the estate remains famous for its honey which is still produced to this day. The very first pineapple to be raised in England was grown at Dorney Court and presented to Charles II in 1661 and the spectre of a bald lady haunts the wood panelled hallways.

This item poses questions which is what makes it so interesting, why was it posted and why Manchester? Why was it mis-laid or discarded and what door does it open?

An interesting country house curio and one that chimes with mystery.

Object Condition

The key is in very good condition with the label completely intact remarkably.

Object Details