An Exciting Historic Donation

As a charity retailer, we never know what might arrive through our doors, and it is often the unexpected donations that prove the most fascinating. Our team at the Farlington Warehouse (Donation Centre) were recently delighted to uncover a remarkable piece of history: a collection of items linked to the Rutland family of Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire. 

Among the collection is a beautifully handwritten letter dated 5 April 1923, penned by Violet Rutland and addressed to “My dear Lady Elizabeth.” Hidden inside one of four antique handbags, the letter provides a rare and personal glimpse into aristocratic life more than a century ago. The handbags themselves, believed to be over 100 years old, are stunning examples of the craftsmanship, style, and attention to detail that defined the period.

A Connection to British History 

The items are linked to Violet Manners, Duchess of Rutland, a prominent figure in British aristocratic society. Known both for her artistic talent and her influential role in shaping the interiors and gardens of Belvoir Castle, Violet left a lasting legacy that is still admired today. 

Married to John Manners, 8th Duke of Rutland, Violet became Duchess in 1906. She had a keen eye for art, interior design, and landscaping, and worked alongside renowned garden designer Harold Peto to redesign parts of the Belvoir gardens. In addition to her work at the castle, she was also recognised as a talented artist. 

The Letter 

The letter was written from Violet’s London address in 1923, “Violet Rutland” at 16 Arlington Street SW1, who was also referred to Violet Manners, Duchess of Rutland — formally Marion Margaret Violet Manners, Duchess of Rutland. She and the 8th Duke of Rutland still controlled Rutland House at that time.  

By 1923: 

• the house had already served as the Rutland Hospital for Officers during WWI,  

• Violet had personally overseen its conversion into a military hospital,  

• Her daughter Lady Diana worked there as a nurse.  

In 1923, the most prominent “Lady Elizabeth” in Violet Rutland’s social circle was likely Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, who would later become Queen and, subsequently, the Queen Mother. When the letter was written, she was still styled Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, just weeks before her marriage to the future King George VI on 26 April 1923. This title exactly matches the salutation, “My dear Lady Elizabeth”, at the beginning of the letter. 

The Duke died in 1925, and Violet later sold 16 Arlington Street in the 1930s to the Royal Over-Seas League and moved to Belgravia in London. 

With 16 shops across our community and two online stores, we often receive incredible donations. Find your nearest Rowans Hospice Retail Shop on our Shop With Us page.