We have a responsibility, in caring for places of historical interest, to research and share the widest possible range of histories with the widest possible range of people. Some of these histories are comfortable. Some of them are hugely uncomfortable.
Our new report includes a gazetteer describing links with colonialism and historic slavery and a number of essays written by our curators that place these links in the broader context of a trade and way of working we now find abhorrent.
What we'll be doing next
There can only be a strong future for the National Trust if we succeed in telling clear and open stories about its places, sharing its research more widely and also inviting people to comment and be involved. So we'll be gathering feedback on the report through the autumn of 2020, and asking a specially convened group to assess these responses, using their lived experience and professional expertise to recommend future actions that the Trust can take.
In the coming years we'll build upon this initial report with further research and with new interpretation. This will include difficult histories relating to slavery, but also a wide range of other inclusive histories. Our intention is never to preach, but always to be open and honest.
As a member and visitor, you'll continue to find that the houses and gardens we look after are beautiful and relaxing places to enjoy. You’ll also find that the history of those places is increasingly available for you to explore and understand.
Wimpole, and other National Trust places, are perfect backdrops to a picnic, a cream tea in the café or a stroll in beautiful countryside. But they are also more than that. They tell us much about our past and who we are. They tell myriad stories, of everyone, and we want everyone to feel their stories are represented.