Heiress Mary Davies, born in London during the Great Plague of 1665, inherited an extensive plot of land west of London as a baby. It was this estate that determined the course of a tragic life.

In this talk, author Leo Hollis restores the history of child brides, mad heiresses, religious controversy and shady dealings. Hollis recounts how the drama culminated in a court case that determined not just the state of Mary’s legacy but the future of London itself. Mary’s inheritance is known today as the Grosvenor Estate in Mayfair; some of the most valuable real estate in the world.

About the speaker

Leo Hollis is the author of Inheritance: The Lost History of Mary Davies, described as 'a valiant and exhaustive piece of detective work' by The Times. Hollis is the author of two acclaimed history books: The Phoenix: The Men Who Made Modern London, and Stones of London, and the international bestseller, Cities are Good for You. He lives in London.

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