Game register of a gamekeeper, 1937-71
Nov 12, 2020
4 minutes
WRITTEN BY ALAN SPENCE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREW SYDENHAM
A few years back, Christmas brought a unique book into my possession. It is not by a famous author, nor has it ever been, or ever will be, in the bestsellers lists. Rather, it is the game register for Chris Oliver, who, from the 1937 season through to that of 1970-71, was gamekeeper on Lilburn Estates in Northumberland for the Collingwood family. Lilburn Estate had arrived in the Collingwood family through one Thomas Clennel, following which, in the 1820s, Henry Collingwood caused the present Mansion House, Lilburn Towers, to be constructed.
Over the 34-year period covered by the register, Oliver (who appears
You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.
Start your free 30 days