Gone but not forgotten
This year marks the 80th anniversary of the sinking of HMS Royal Oak during WWII. Here at Mount Edgcumbe we will be commemorating the service of the ship and its crew between 17 November 1914 and 14 October 1939.
The ship was launched in Devonport by Viscountess Valletort, the daughter in law of the 4th Earl of Mount Edgcumbe and future 5th Countess.
An exhibition will be on display in the House throughout September and October and will showcase the intricately carved oak casket, on loan from the Earl of Mount Edgcumbe, which was presented to the Viscountess to commemorate the launching. The Stuart crest on the front depicts the origins of the first HMS Royal Oak while the top and sides are decorated with oak leaves, oak apples and acorns as well as the symbol of the Edgcumbe family and the initials of the Viscountess. Inside are ceremonial tools, also decorated, and a painting of the ship passing Mount Edgcumbe.