Other Sites of Transatlantic Interest

Firle Place has a unique connection to the story of America’s founding through the Gage family, most notably General Thomas Gage, who played a central role at the beginning of the American Revolutionary War as Commander in Chief of the British forces in America.

In 1782 Lord Shelburne negotiated the Treaty of Paris with America. Tradition holds that he drafted the treaty in what is now the Round Room Cocktail Bar at The Lansdowne Club. His friend, Benjamin Franklin, is the chief American signatory.

The Club will be hosting an event in May to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. 

Bowood House, though Lord Shelburne, has is deeply connected to America through both politics and friendships. As Prime Minister, Lord Shelburne assisted in the drafting and passage of the Treaty of Paris at the end of the Revolutionary War in 1783. He had a friendship with Benjamin Franklin.

To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Declaration of Independence, Bowood will host an exhibition will explore both politics and relationships, as well as delving into the world of eighteenth-century espionage. 

Raby is the ancestral home of Sir Henry Vane, 5th Governor of Massachusetts. A radical supporter of liberty of conscience,  and advocate for the foundation of Rhode Island.  Raby was also the birthplace of  Jeremiah Dixon who trained as estate surveyor best known for his work on the Mason-Dixon line.