National Trust appeal for memories of Rainham Hall in the 60s to complete new exhibition
The National Trust is asking for Havering residents to share their memories of Rainham Hall in the 60s, when Anthony Denney and his family were tenants there. Photo: National Trust - Credit: Archant
The National Trust is urging any past or present Havering residents to share their memories of Rainham Hall during the 60s.
The National Trust is asking for Havering residents to share their memories of Rainham Hall in the 60s, when Anthony Denney and his family were tenants there. Photo: National Trust - Credit: Archant
For many decades, the Grade II listed building in Rainham Broadway Hall was rented out to private tenants and between 1964-1969, Anthony Denney, a photographer, interior designer and art collector took up residency.
A National Trust spokesman said: “During this time, members of the public were able to request a visit to the historic hall by written appointment.
“If you were one of the people who did this, then the Rainham Hall team would love to hear from you.
“This will help us discover more about this time in the building’s history and your memories could be the key to bringing this era to life in a new exhibition.”
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A Royal Engineer during the Second World War, Mr Denney went on to work for Conde Nast Publications and had photographs printed in Vogue and other prestigious magazines.
In 1964, he successfully applied to a National Trust advertisement seeking a new tenant for Rainham Hall and set about a programme of interior repairs.
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Mr Denney’s décor scheme was designed to reflect the early 1700s – three decades prior to the actual construction of the hall.
He collected antique furniture, including eighteenth century pieces which he used to furnish the Hall alongside his modern pieces.
Today some of Mr Denney’s paint schemes still remain, particularly in the entrance hall with the gilding and marbled paint work that he added.
Despite all the effort to achieve his restoration project, he didn’t stay at the hall very long and left in 1969.
He later moved to Spain where he resided until he passed away, unexpectedly, in 1990
In 2012, Rainham Hall embarked on a major conservation and interpretation project to transform the site and open it fully to the public for the first time.
Perhaps you visited the hall during 1964-1969 or met Mr Denney during the time he lived in Rainham?
If so, please get in touch with rainhamhall@nationaltrust.org.uk or write to Rainham Hall, The Broadway, Rainham RM13 9YN.
