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C H I L L I N G H A M C A S T L E
N O R T H U M B E R L A N D , E N G L A N D
S i r H u m p h r y W a k e f i e l d , B t .
In the same family lineage since the 1200s, Chillingham Castle remains a
powerful fortress to this day – though now a strong centre for cultural rather
than the martial arts of ancient days. The Castle was assaulted and conquered
by its present family line in the mid 1200s. The family has provided wartime
commanders for the historic battles from Agincourt to World War II. Two
Prime Ministers and enough courtiers for a national pageantry have been reared
at Chillingham castle. Visitors to Chillingham Castle have included the English
Kings and Queens since the visit of King Edward I (to whomWilliamWakefield
was Private Secretary) in 1298 and during each subsequent reign. The family
of the Earls Grey granted Sir Humphry Wakefield the castle because of his
relationship with the family and for devoting his efforts to the concept of
Chillingham Castle as a cultural centre. Sir Humphry Wakefield’s father was a
Minister in Winston Churchill’s government. As Comptroller of Her Majesty
the Queen’s Household, he served as President and Prime Minister in various
Colonial States.
