THE WASHINGTON CHEST (AL64001)
An oak blanket chest, the moulded edge top, above a
panelled back and sides, the front carved with ovals and
lozenges on stile supports with ogee spandrels.
The original English, circa 1650.
HISTORY ACROSS NATIONS
The Spencers lent the Washingtons, their second cousins,
a home near Althorp when the Washingtons suffered
financial catastrophe in the 17th century. The Washingtons
left this chest behind in their home, when they moved on.
It was authenticated by a local priest, in 1877, as having
belonged to the ancestors of George Washington before
their emigration to America. The house in the local village
at Brington is still called Washington Cottage.
“ ...The Washington Chest is a timeless piece with a rugged
practicality that demands use. Today it is where I keep my
tennis and cricket equipment.”
— Lord Spencer
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