The Parkington Stone
The Preservation of Flatford: Honoring the Legacy of Mr. Thomas Parkington (1866-1942)
- 67
- Thomas Parkington 1866-1942 Flatford Mill
- 51.958364, 1.022039
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The Preservation of Flatford: Honoring the Legacy of Mr. Thomas Parkington (1866-1942)
2020/21: During a search for a Saxon Church and headstones mentioned in John Willett’s writings, the author’s attention was drawn to a large stone resting against a tree, obscured by stinging nettles. This discovery, brought to light by a member of the Field Studies Centre, turned out to be the original memorial stone dedicated to Mr. Thomas Parkington. The stone had been moved over time, nearly discarded, and left forgotten for nearly a century. Since its rediscovery in 2021, efforts have been ongoing to restore the stone, which holds significant historical value. Coincidentally, the author also came into possession of a Proof Edition booklet titled “The Saving of Flatford,” dedicated to Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Robert Parkington of Pykenham House, Ipswich, originally published for the stone’s dedication in 1928.
The stone’s inscription reads:
“Flatford Mill Estate
Acquired, Restored, and Given in Trust by
Thomas R Parkington FRSA of Ipswich
As a national possession in memory of
John Constable RA 1776-1837
For the encouragement of outdoor landscape painting
and to preserve the beauties of the English countryside
This centenary stone was unveiled
by Mrs. T R Parkington on November 23rd, 1937.”
It is remarkable that such a significant memorial, acknowledging the Parkingtons’ contributions, has remained unnoticed at Flatford. Collaborating with Simon Gallup and Tamasin Davies, the author has delved into the stone’s history, and now shares these findings, recognizing that many may be unaware of Mr. Parkington’s pivotal role, despite Flatford’s popularity among visitors.
Historical Overview:
1926: By 1926, Willy Lott’s house was in a state of dereliction, with a tree growing through its roof, and Flatford Mill was also in disrepair. This situation was brought to the attention of the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB) and the National Trust. SPAB, having recently completed repairs on Valley Farm, advised against further work on Willy Lott’s House or the Mill due to the associated costs.
Who Was Thomas Parkington? Thomas Parkington, an Ipswich builder and philanthropist, was in the final stages of restoring Oak Hill in Ipswich when he learned about the deteriorating state of the Flatford buildings. In response, he and his wife, Florence Parkington, visited Flatford and quickly announced their purchase of the Flatford Mill Estate, including Willy Lott’s house. Mr. Parkington undertook many of the repairs recommended by SPAB, and by 1928, the restoration of Willy Lott’s House was completed. The Prince of Wales, having visited Oak Hill after its restoration, acknowledged Mr. Parkington’s efforts with a portrait that was hung in Oak Hill House.
1928: To commemorate the preservation of Flatford, a booklet titled “The Saving of Flatford” was published in 1928.
23rd November 1937: Marking the centenary of John Constable’s death, the memorial stone was unveiled by Mrs. T. R. Parkington in a ceremony attended by a large audience.
1938: Queen Mary visited the site, and articles in the Essex Chronicle and Essex Newsman highlighted the Parkingtons’ contributions to the estate’s transition into a national treasure.
1942: Upon Mr. Parkington’s passing, there was an intention for the Flatford Mill Estate to be gifted to the nation. However, due to financial challenges, the National Trust had to purchase the buildings from Mr. Parkington’s bank.
1947-1948: The Parkington stone plaque was taken down, as it was thought not to fully reflect the circumstances. However, after Mrs. Parkington repaid the National Trust, it was acknowledged that Flatford was indeed a gift from the Parkingtons, and discussions ensued about reinstalling the plaque. Unfortunately, this reinstallation was never carried out, and the plaque was moved over the years.
2022: A letter from the National Trust Secretary in London revealed that various members had requested the reinstallation or creation of a replacement plaque, acknowledging the Parkingtons’ contributions.
March 2021: The author reached out to the National Trust, offering to fundraise for the plaque’s restoration. A proposal was made, including a quotation from A. Clarke Memorials in Colchester. Three potential locations for the stone were identified, with a preference for placing it outside Willy Lott’s House.
2022: In November 2022, an update was received indicating that Clivedon Conservation had attended the site, and while the stone had been temporarily cleaned and placed near The Granary, further steps for its proper display were under consideration.
8th December 2022: The author proposed forming a small working group, including representatives from the National Trust, the Parish Council, and other stakeholders, to oversee the project. The aim is to restore the stone and celebrate the Parkingtons’ legacy with a public unveiling, potentially involving local or royal representatives.
Currently, a handwritten explanation accompanies the stone, awaiting its rightful restoration and recognition.
Joyce Baker
- 67
- Thomas Parkington 1866-1942 Flatford Mill
- 51.958364, 1.022039
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