Many people are surprised to learn that people actually lived in Stover’s Granite Lodge (the gatehouse on the side of the A38 near Drum Bridge roundabout). This presentation by Professor Peter Brooks provides a brief history of the Granite Lodge and the life and times of the people who called it home.
On the South side of the current A38 Devon Expressway, near the Drum Bridges Roundabout, stands Stover Granite Lodge. The Granite Lodge was built in 1833 as a gatehouse and the principal entry to Stover Park, which was, at that time, owned by the Duke of Somerset. The Lodge is a listed building and has recently been restored as part of the ‘Restoring Stover Park’ project. The talk is being given by Peter Brooks, who has researched the history of the Granite Lodge, with a particular focus on the lives and times of the people who lived there. Information from documents and first-hand testimony have provided a unique insight into the way people lived in the Granite Lodge.
Despite lacking electricity, running water or sanitation, the Granite Lodge had resident gatekeepers and was occupied from 1833 to ca. 1953. The residents would have seen many events and changes over the years and their story is a fascinating one. Their story has been recounted in a new book Stover Granite Lodge: Somebody’s home for over 100 years. Which is available from the Centre at Stover Country Park.
Your ticket will provide entry to the talk, alongside a hot drink and biscuit.
A signed copy of 'Stover Granite Lodge: Somebody's home for over 100 years' by Professor Peter Brooks will be available for purchase on the day for £10 (cash only).
