Living History with the Countess of Derby
Welcome to “Living History with the Countess of Derby,” where I, the Countess of Derby, take you on a journey through some of the most captivating moments in British and American history.
This podcast delves into the stories behind some of the most influential figures, events, and places that have shaped our world. From the Victorian era’s most significant politicians and their ties to my family, the Derbys, to Knowsley Hall’s unique association with William Shakespeare and the origins of the Epsom Derby, we explore the rich tapestry of history that continues to influence us today.
Inspired by my research and the response to these stories, I’m excited to share even more. Over the last few years, I’ve focused on publishing the travel journals of Edward Geoffrey Smith Stanley, the 14th Earl of Derby, detailing his journeys through Europe in the 1820s and across America and Canada in the 1820s. These travels offer a vivid snapshot of the 19th century and its many transformations. You can learn more about these books by visiting www.thecountessofderby.com.
In this podcast, we’ll dive into the complexities of 19th-century America, the Revolutionary War’s key moments, and the life of my ancestor, General Charles Cornwallis, including his role in the surrender at Yorktown in 1781. We’ll also explore more of the 14th Earl of Derby’s travels and the unique historical insights they provide.
To stay updated on new episodes, follow “Living History with the Countess of Derby” on your preferred podcast platform. Thank you for joining me, and I look forward to sharing more fascinating stories with you!
- Update frequency
- every 2 days
- Average duration
- 36 minutes
- Episodes
- 12
- Years Active
- 2024 - 2025
Tribute: The Literary Legacy of the Fourteenth Earl of Derby
Episode Description:
In this final episode of Tribute, we explore two defining aspects of the 14th Earl of Derby’s life: his contributions to literature and his role in the abolition of slavery in the…
Tribute: The Fourteenth Earl of Derby's Legacy in Politics and Society
Episode Description:
The 14th Earl of Derby was more than a statesman—he was a visionary who shaped both British horse racing and education reform. His passion for the turf wasn’t just about sport; it…
Tribute: The Life and Legacy of the Fourteenth Earl of Derby
Episode Description:
In the heart of Parliament Square, among statues of history’s most celebrated figures, stands a tribute to a man largely overlooked today—Edward Smith-Stanley, the 14th Earl of De…
Tribute: The Fourteenth Earl of Derby
Benjamin Disraeli once said of the 14th Earl of Derby that his legacy would be that he educated Ireland, abolished slavery, and reformed Parliament. Yet today, he is known as the forgotten Prime Mini…
Welcome to Living History with The Countess of Derby
Episode Description:
Welcome to “Living History with the Countess of Derby,” where I, the Countess of Derby, take you on a journey through some of the most captivating moments in British and American …
Bonus: The Architecture of Knowsley Hall
Episode Description:
On this very special bonus episode, the Countess of Derby sits down with architectural historian Dr John Martin Robinson FSA to discuss the architecture of Knowsley Hall. In the e…
Ep 6: Knowsley Hall Park & Gardens; the 13th Earl’s Aviary & Menagerie, Edward Lear; and the Safari Park
Episode Description:
In this episode, the Countess of Derby meets John Phibbs, Dr David Jacques and Dr Clemency Fisher to explore the fascinating story behind how the park and gardens at Knowsley were…
Ep 5: The ‘Political’ Earls of Derby 1820 – 1950
Episode Description:
In this episode, the countess of Derby meets Geoffrey Hicks and Dr. Jennifer Davey to discuss the life of the former prime minister, the 14th Earl of Derby, and how a journey to t…
Ep 4: The Earls of Derby & Horse Racing through the Centuries
Episode Description:
In today’s episode, Lady Derby sits down Alexandra Mayson and her husband Edward 19th Earl of Derby, to explore the history & association of horse racing to the Earls of Derby. In…
Ep 3: The Derby Collection
Episode Description:
This time on the podcast, Lady Derby meets Dr. Richard Stephens and Dr. Stephen Lloyd where we spoke about our incredible Derby Collection - and the story behind the many breathta…
Ep 2: The Earls of Derby and Shakespearean Theatre 1580-2023
Episode Description:
This time Lady Derby is joined by historians Professor Elspeth Graham and author Dr Vanessa Wilkie to discuss the history of patronage, theatrical performance and connection betw…
Ep 1: Knowsley Hall, Lathom House and the Stanley family 1385-1651
Episode Description:
In the first episode of this special season about Knowsley Hall and the history of the Stanley family, Lady Derby meets Dan Snow and Dr William Shannon to discuss the history of …