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First World War Waistcoat

As featured in the new National Trust book, 100 Things to Wear, and now on display in the house, this unusual waistcoat originally belonged to Navy signaller Harrie Joseph (1887–1957), who convalesced at Hatchlands after suffering shellshock in 1915.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

This waistcoat was one of 11, 000 made from donated leather gloves and given to sailors and soldiers serving in the First World War. They were made by members of the Ladies’ Territorial Committee, whose appeal requesting old leather gloves was published in the press. A tiny mark indicates that this was the 900th waistcoat made by the committee. Later, Harrie Joseph gave the waistcoat to his daughter Lorna, who used it to keep warm during fire-watch duty throughout the Second World War.

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Upcoming events

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on
9 Oct to 30 Oct 2025
at
11:30 to 12:00
+ 3 other dates or times

Half-term Halloween at Hatchlands 

Enjoy a spooky day out at Hatchlands Park this October half term.

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on
25 Oct to 2 Nov 2025
at
10:00 to 16:00
+ 8 other dates or times

The Snowdogs at Hatchlands Park 

Discover The Snowdogs at Hatchlands Park this winter. on a family trail through the parkland.

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on
15 Nov 2025 to 6 Jan 2026
at
10:00 to 16:00
+ 50 other dates or times

Christmas in the house at Hatchlands 

Experience the magic of Christmas at Hatchlands this winter. See the house beautifully decorated for the festive season and soak up the atmosphere of a traditional country house Christmas.

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on
1 Dec to 31 Dec 2025
at
12:00 to 15:00
+ 28 other dates or times