I’m left absolutely speechless! This is one of the best documentaries I’ve ever seen! French Revolution viewed from the ground, a chateau in the countryside: the upstairs downstairs division, the tenant farmers etc. - everything is so well researched and presented by you in such an interesting way. The production quality is also top notch: the pictures are cinematic, the sound is impeccable and the music just fits the scenes. Thank you for this most fascinating history lesson. Content like this should be on national television!
Wonderful isn’t it? I’ve just finished reading Edward Rutherfurd’s novel ‘Paris’ which provides a wonderful social history through the generations. Worth a read.
Beautifully done! You've made a compelling and touching video. This is a museum-quality informative video. Most people wax lyrical about the "stuff" in their chateaux; you've waxed poignant about the back stories to the "stuff." While the grand English houses had a similar ethos of keeping the staff invisible and housed in sub-standard conditions, the stairway to the maid's room showed a really excessive disdain for servants. I admire the way you have tied the status-symbols of the pigeonnaire and the wallpapers to the Revolution. This is how history should be taught.
“Excessive disdain for servants” seems to have remained France’s brand right up through the Haussmann era. Their miserable living quarters on the top floors of those buildings, tiny spaces with zinc roofs that become little ovens in the summer, is legendary in this city. (You can rent one for the measly price of over 1000€/mo these days, if you want to experience it for yourself!)
- In the 1780' the Marquis and Marquise de Purnon owned a large agricultural estate with many farmers. They needed a grand house at the center of this estate; because they were socially compelled to welcome and entertain visiting aristocrats and government officials. This house needed between 10 and 20 servants to operate, not counting the gardeners and the employee of chateau"s farm. Considering the Marquis and Marquises had 2 children, it doesn't look very strange that this family of 4 wanted some kind of privacy from the many servants that walked through their chateau's corridors and staircases... - Pigeons were a very quick and secret way of communication that central French government tried to forbid as much as they could. Only noblemen and government officials were allowed to own them, plus, the limit of 2 pigeons per hectare of land was supposed to be low enough to preserve farmers' interest. Furthermore, pigeons were trapped inside their dovecotes during seeding period. - I understand that French revolution was probably more due to the corruption of French magistrates and judiciary system than to excessive economic inequalities in the French society of the time. It looks like king Louis the XV policy was rather appropriate for the time and place ("parlement Maupéou"...), while Louis the XVIth policy was inept and made difficult problems much worse than they were....
That was the coolest video! One gets the sense of exactly how the people of Pernon lived! I can't believe BTW that the pigeons were ultimately responsible for ruining the surrounding farms seeds by eating them! It really doesn't make much sense that they would eliminate the crops around them that would be ultimately supplying the Pernon family food!
2 месяца назад+4
We're thrilled you enjoyed this episode. Understanding the causes of the French Revolution is complicated and contested... but the pigeons played their part!
Actually they paid some , La Taille, la Capitation , with variations between Provinces . The historical justification for paying less taxes than the equally rich bourgeoisie being that unlike the Bourgeoisie they paid the blood tax (war). But of course in the 18th century there were less wars than few centuries before so that was anachronistic . The Kings tried to reform the system but as land was providing less revenues many nobles resisted the changes , especially the less affluent ones. The very top layer was more willing to give up their privileges which they did in 1789. Very complex situations that are often misrepresented . For those interested Francois Furet was one of the great historians of the period .
Such a tragic history but the beauty of the Chateau will hopefully be restored and be a monument to the people who built it on blood sweat and tears. There seems to be a story of great loss and sacrifice behind most grand edifices in Europe. Gives pause for thought indeed. Thanks for this fascinating history. Love the dog and hope in time you will get her a mate to play with!❤
Thank you both for this marvellous presentation of the historic life of its owners of Chateau de Perno and its building time - line. It was fascinating to see the tunnel taken by cooks and maids to the kitchens where they prepared luxurious meals for the nobles. I think you made a good point that, although of course some grand estates still have footmen, butlers and servants etc. - the welfare for those working in the Chateau may have been preferable than those of Tenant farmers who suffered terribly. I had never known before about the pigeons being kept in such large quantities, according to law for nobles of certain rank, that lived of the farmers seeds which led to greater famine and and disaster. I wish you both great good fortune with the restoration of the Chateau. I would love to have seen the letter, that saved the Chateau, translated to English. Xxxx ❤
Thank you so much for the history that surrounds your beautiful Chateau de Purnon, it is really fascinating. I love your channel, and I am so impressed, with your dedication and love to restore her to her formal glory, revealing her past, be it good or bad. Thank you again. Love from N.Y.
Hello from Nashville, Tennessee. It's always wonderful to learn history and see the faces of those who experienced French history firsthand. What an enormous responsibility for you both to take on such an endeavor such as this. The restoration and appropriate decorations of your home is such a task. You both work from a passionate labor of love! I always anticipate your new blogs to come! You guys make your blog fun, exciting, and educational for me! I appreciate your diligent work! Best of luck!
Marvelous presentation and the history lesson above and beyond well done. i love history and loved hearing how the chateau existed in such hard times and why the revolution happened. What a great lesson thank you delightful in deed. ❤❤👏👏👏🥰🥰🇨🇦
Great history episode and puts it all into context with the chateau! I've missed your videos and seeing the Chateau de Purnon restoration but realise your so busy, great work.
I believe that today there is still this way of life of social or labor classes, between owner and worker, it is like a great hotel where each person has his function. Thank you for this beautiful video.❤😊
That’s an astute observation, the high-end hotel represents a pretty good facsimile of the upstairs, downstairs mentality in the modern era. Sounds like a good theme for a book!
To give the insight of how Chateau Purnon was affected by the revolution brings another level to it’s history…it seems it came to a letter written begging for it’s survival ..the sleuthing has revealed what could have been diminished with time..this as been such a great episode..thanking you both..I imagine that the dinner was a grand success..⭕️🦋⭕️
3 месяца назад+1
Thanks for your message. We're thrilled you enjoyed this episode.
'Well you know, we all want to save the world'. I really loved the video, thankyou. It's so good, and right, to get the story beyond the cliché of simple history. Keep up the good work.
Fantastic documentary , enjoyed the history of Purnon, love your passion , congratulations and well done for all you’re both doing , looking forward for your next video from Point lonsdale Victoria Australia
I loved this. The music choice was impeccable. Could I ask that you reduce the volume of the curtain music as it is hard to hear the words over the music. Thank you.
Brilliant video full of history, facts and thoughts of life at ever time of the revolution. Petworth House in England was built with similar servants tunnels across the house and grounds. Staff. Not to be seen or heard.
That was just an amazing video. What a wonderful history lesson of the chateau. The rooms are gorgeous with great color combinations. Thank you so much for sharing.
I can’t believe your having the event in Melbourne, where I am a mile away from France watching your video. I will try and make the event. I watched your video and follow chateau renovations on RUclips but this one intrigued me as my husbands GGG uncle (Charles Ewart Ensign) fought in the battle of Waterloo and captured the flag which ended the war. Loved watching it and the history you told ❤ Good luck
Excellent enlightening journey through Purnon s History Thank you monumental task to restore this Grand Chateau i watch for your videos .. Blessings & Good Luck
Such a brilliant approach to actually embrace and embed "context for content". Your undertaking of Purnon's restoration is perhaps not too far from today's global tumult and the national/international societal & fiscal shifts and tremors we collectively are experiencing. I applaud your focus and decided route to showcase the journey and both the fiscal & physical enablers of your astute business model.
I commend you on the restoration of this chateau. I look forward to your posts with baited breathe as they are part updates on your progress, but as well a throughly researched and splendid history lesson on the chateau, and events surrounding those who inhabited the magnificent building. I’m dumbfounded that this channel does not have over 250000 viewers as the restoration is monumental and fascinatingly presented. I suspect that with time as you progress it will pick up. The two wallpapers that were highlighted are exquisite. Too bad they couldn’t be reproduced as they are stunningly beautiful and I’m quite sure those hand blocked patterns would sell. Since I live in the Washington DC area we have buildings that are funded to be saved for eternity. Further I’ve been to mansions in Newport Rhode Island that have been rescued from destruction, and are maintained by the historical society as they are woven into the history of a bygone era of the US. Thus I am keenly aware of cost factors that surround both restorations, and then maintenance. Again my thanks for time in filming and your presentations. They are not un-noticed. Well done!
I found this video fascinating, I’m a history lover and I found your commentary mesmerising! Can’t wait for the next instalment, you two are truly admirable ❤
Fabulous vision along with diligence! Amazing effort and true dedication to saving this beautiful Chateau! Pursuing this monumental task is very unique! The Chateau will now remain for a few more centuries! Way to go!
Fascinating history lesson, made more dramatic for being told from the Chateau's perspective. That view of the fields from the wind turbine tower (can't remember the proper name) was phenomenal, the colours and perspective look like a painting by a master. I bet those farmers resented those pigeons with a bitter passion that built with every sowing time, no wonder they revolted. Beautiful work on the filming and edit, I really enjoyed watching the video.❤
I am absolutely speechless this documentary was absolutely fascinating and l cannot think of any two people more deserving to bring this beautiful Chateau back to its former glory thank you for sharing this with us all ❤
G'day. I do love the historical context you give, it's fascinating, as is the actual physical restoration. I do hope it's all going well there, the little snatches of work looks fabulous, looking forward to seeing more.
What an absolute joy to watch. Both of you are incredibly interesting and your passion shines through. It’s infectious. I wish you all the success in what is a monumental undertaking but one that is so worthwhile. Good luck.
I really appreciate you addressing this aspect of history... and doing a very good job of it. All your videos are so professional and well put together. Well done !!
You are unique in the chateau reno universe in paying attention to the contributions made to chateau architecture, life and history made by the working classes. Every chateau was built on the bones of peasants, servants and artisanal workers as British, French, Dutch, Spanish, Portuguese and American fortunes were built on slavery. Thank you for acknowledging this.
Well done. The research, the history, your story telling bring the events to a more personal level. As an architect and historical preservationist as well as a history buff, thank you. 👏👏
Fabulous production! The story of your wonderful chateau and its history should be a national treasure. I wish I could be at the launch event in Melbourne but sadly can't make it even though I'm not too far away (FNQld). I wish you all the best for the launch. I can't wait for the next installment.
I just want to make one observation about the difference in social division. In 2024 we think servants living quarters are controversial and the dirty not so secret past. What frustrates me most is that you judge the people for having 4-50 servants on the grounds when in those periods people would have felt honored to work at these places. They had a safe place to live. They were given uniforms, a room, food, water, no taxes, medical care(when they had doctors)), taught to hunt/ride/art/cooking/farming/ whatever they needed. Some lived and raised families inside these chateau’s. I am not naive I get the they were treated badly but it was a job. It was stability. It was a high social class then people who lived 15 family members in a three room apartment without heat. Having trouble finding jobs and food. Clothes were made by hand with horrible materials that were cast aways. Their children were uneducated. Most couldn’t read or write. They knew nothing about art, history, music, dancing, and many other subjects that people who lived there learned. They weren’t highborn but they also were low class. We work jobs and have people above you getting rich while you do the work. We have homeless, gutter rats, second class, middle class, high class. Judging before realizing everyone worked together to make sure that they all had a place to live. The better the families business do the better quality of life for everyone.
4 месяца назад+1
Your raise many interesting points. However, it's fair to say that the relationship between the servant class and the nobles that they served was complex in both France and Great Britain. We must be wary of presenting either too dire a picture or alternatively creating a somewhat idealised fantasy of what life was like. We prefer to present the history visually through the discoveries that we make. It is up to others to decide what conclusions to reach about the state of relations between the various social classes. But, be aware that just as Les Miserables or Oliver Twist may exaggerate the woes of the working classes, Downtown Abbey may also present too rosy a picture of the symbiotic relationship between nobles and their domestic staff. Thank you for your message and for following our journey.
Question for you guys Tim and Felicity 😊😊 Did the old lady and her family that gave you the keys to paradise, not have the money anymore and did they know about fhe level of patrimoine their home had? I guess they weren't as passionate as you both anymore? Or was therd another reason to sell the property? Thanks and kudos to both of you for this amazing adventure we are able to live along! 🙏🙏🙏
2 месяца назад+2
By the time the de Rochequairie family sold Chateau de Purnon in 2020 there were 11 different owners (from various branches of the family). That makes it very difficult to make long term decisions about the future of the chateau. They certainly understood its heritage value. After all they are the ones responsible for the Chateau's original heritage listing.
Thank you guys! Here in the Walloon part of the country a couple of years ago, even with public support and protests, a castle in bigger decay (unfortunately) than your chateau was ordered destroyed, because of lack of political will, the owner not having the means to bring it back to life...smaller country (Belgium) with less funds to finance big projects...sadly If i were younger i'd gladly come volunteer to help you guys :) Keep up the great work! Cheers
2 месяца назад+2
Are you referring to Chateau de Noisy in Namur? It's always very complicated when buildings reach a point where their unmanaged collapse could cause a catastrophe. If the owner could not restore it and could not sell it, there comes a point where public safety must be considered. Given the cost of demolition is not cheap, why did he not give it away? If no one would have accepted it, even for free, it does tell us something about the feasibility of restoration.
Yes that's it! I didn't remember the name. I am baffled by your knowledge!! Of course you are right, when things got too far and dangerous there is no other option. But a sad Belgian story where official instancies did not have the funds to get as far as you...could have been the story of Purnon if only you came 5 years later?! On the other hand we have tons of Art Nouveau buildings in pristine conditions that found private ownership (probably not the same pricetag as a french chateau?). Thank you for your answers! Cheers Pascal
2 месяца назад+2
When we lose a little piece of our history, we lose a piece of ourselves. But we understand that not everything can be saved and governments (understandably) have many priorities and finite resources. We can only tackle what is in front of us, and for the two of us that project is saving Chateau de Purnon... so here we are! Best wishes and we hope you continue to enjoy our journey.
I watched this video again, it's so interesting. I watch a lot of these chateau DIY videos and mentioned on another that the garden design may have another more practical aspect that no one ever mentions and I don't know is true. The great set back of forest from house could have served as a protection against forest fires? Those houses are treasure houses with valuable contents. All the estate buildings' exterior surfaces are constructed of fireproof materials. It might be very interesting to search old records for any reference to forest fires? They may not have thought to keep records of weather or dry spells etc. but there must have been droughts? France suffered from frequent crop failures and famines before the 19th century. A period of crop failure and famine contributed to the start of the revolution. I don't know if it was a period of drought?
I am speechless. I am so glad you know your home's history so well. I am elated that you own paintings of former owners and people who lived there. It's all so fascinating to me. I live in Nashville, Tennessee. We have some history but not like France or your home! I hope all goes well for you all! If you guys ever have copies of your wallpapers made and sell them as a fundraiser method, please let me know! I love all of them!
It's amazing that through your hard work and video you testify that not only you are passionate about a Chateau but are real enthusiasts about European and French history. Being French I learned about the Revolution at school but never heard ( or was I distracted ? ) about the Eden Treaty, you Aussies told me about ;-) I can just say, keep up the good work, with your dedication and passion this Chateau and the people of that era have already revived !
Месяц назад
Thanks for your message - we're thrilled you're enjoying our journey. We look forward to sharing our further progress with everyone.
Just found this one again. Well done. I see that I'd already seen this, but it's fresh to me again. So very much information is embedded in your project there. Wow again!
2 месяца назад
Thank you for your message and we hope you continue to enjoy our videos.
Loved reading all about you today in the Herald Sun newspaper. It is an amazing story and explains much about France's history. You are doing an amazing job, and i always look forward to your vlogs. From a Melbourne follower.
You are so brave to take this on. Now, having watched this video, i can see why so well explained . Please make some more.i wish i was younger i would love to restore something myself . I am blown away by your enthusiasm and determination.
4 месяца назад
Thanks for your message. We're thrilled you enjoyed this episode.
Purnon is magnificent as art and beauty and vision for something extraordinary. Yet in chronicling the "inequality" that existed at this time in France, which I understand as a reality, the historical division between social classes would condemn Purnon to not only be neglected but to to be destroyed in the 21 century as a testament to an unacceptable social order- that is if it was here in the US. In the United States, even sympathetically acknowledging the disparity between persons of widely different socio-economic status in times past would not be adequate in justifying the continued existence of a statue, memorial, edifice of any type with any association to a particular unpopular societal stance. Fortunate for Purnon, it has escaped as solely a representation of an imperfect age. Your seemingly tireless efforts and devotion to rehabilitate the chateau are reassuring to believe such things are possible.
interesting and very well edited, however please beware of some shortfalls when considering the inequalities of pre-Revolution France ; France was by no means an aristocracy, State and regional administration was since the XVIIth century also governed by elite commoners. Also, it is true nobility and the Church did not pay taxes, but funded welfare (hospitals, schooling). Finally, the social divide you suggest was intended in many estates did not exist : peasants were peasants and lords were lords but communities were tightly knit. In the west of France, the uprising of the Vendée peasants, led by their lords (of which 300 000 were killed by the Republican army) testifies the strong bond between rural inhabitants.
Recent research establish now that the dead were 170 000, among which nearly 30 000 Republicans. The Vendée was a very particular event in the French Revolution. Elsewhere, the bond between the aristocracy and commoners still remained (except in Paris, very few aristocratic people died during the Revolution : for example, during the "Terreur" 85% of the victims in Paris were from the common people and only 8,5% from the nobility) and no such thing like the Vendée wars happened.
Merci beaucoup pour ce cours très intéressant d'histoire du château et la famille du marquis. Bon courage à vous pour la restauration de ce magnifique monument historique.
The Marquise’s maid would have thought she was in a great position, she had her own private bedroom!, plenty of food, and very nice clothing. Everything was done for her, laundry, cooking, etc. She would have been seen with envy by others of the lower classes. Nevertheless she was probably not able to marry, was on call 24/7, and had no ability to come and go as she pleased. The kitchen staff and scullery maids were much worse off, relentless heavy hot work, although unlike many of their countrymen they never went hungry.
You are quite right. And actually, all things considered, it is more or less the same life than the one we could see on a TV show like "Downton Abbey" : two separate entrances for domestics and masters ; domestics living downstairs or in small rooms in the attic ; domestics not to be seen… To be honest, after the events of the Revolution, life of aristocratic and wealthy people got back to what they were. The Revolution changed the political institutions, not the way of life. In 1830, a French marquis lived exactly the same way than an English one 🙂
Thank you for your explanation of late 18th century social life. Social inequality is still there in the lifes of millions on earth. Also in France today.
I’m left absolutely speechless! This is one of the best documentaries I’ve ever seen! French Revolution viewed from the ground, a chateau in the countryside: the upstairs downstairs division, the tenant farmers etc. - everything is so well researched and presented by you in such an interesting way. The production quality is also top notch: the pictures are cinematic, the sound is impeccable and the music just fits the scenes. Thank you for this most fascinating history lesson. Content like this should be on national television!
Absolutely, I couldn't have put it better, wonderful to watch..and learn so much. M. (NZ)
Wonderful isn’t it? I’ve just finished reading Edward Rutherfurd’s novel ‘Paris’ which provides a wonderful social history through the generations. Worth a read.
@@goldenineke I've put the book on my list. Thanks for the referral.
I love the sensitive approach of this tour regarding social changes and the personal drama of the people who built the place. The perfect owners.
thank you for digging deep not only into the archtectural but also into the social history of the revolution-years of your château!
Beautifully done! You've made a compelling and touching video. This is a museum-quality informative video. Most people wax lyrical about the "stuff" in their chateaux; you've waxed poignant about the back stories to the "stuff." While the grand English houses had a similar ethos of keeping the staff invisible and housed in sub-standard conditions, the stairway to the maid's room showed a really excessive disdain for servants. I admire the way you have tied the status-symbols of the pigeonnaire and the wallpapers to the Revolution. This is how history should be taught.
“Excessive disdain for servants” seems to have remained France’s brand right up through the Haussmann era. Their miserable living quarters on the top floors of those buildings, tiny spaces with zinc roofs that become little ovens in the summer, is legendary in this city. (You can rent one for the measly price of over 1000€/mo these days, if you want to experience it for yourself!)
Beautiful contextualisation.
best chateau video series
Beautiful just beautiful
I saw some knot willows by the orangerie!
Fabulous video of the history of Purnon and its inhabitants. Thank you for all the attention to its restoration.
The history of the French revolution in relation to the building, it’s owners and decoration of Purnon is phenomenal. Thank you for sharing this.
- In the 1780' the Marquis and Marquise de Purnon owned a large agricultural estate with many farmers. They needed a grand house at the center of this estate; because they were socially compelled to welcome and entertain visiting aristocrats and government officials. This house needed between 10 and 20 servants to operate, not counting the gardeners and the employee of chateau"s farm. Considering the Marquis and Marquises had 2 children, it doesn't look very strange that this family of 4 wanted some kind of privacy from the many servants that walked through their chateau's corridors and staircases...
- Pigeons were a very quick and secret way of communication that central French government tried to forbid as much as they could. Only noblemen and government officials were allowed to own them, plus, the limit of 2 pigeons per hectare of land was supposed to be low enough to preserve farmers' interest. Furthermore, pigeons were trapped inside their dovecotes during seeding period.
- I understand that French revolution was probably more due to the corruption of French magistrates and judiciary system than to excessive economic inequalities in the French society of the time. It looks like king Louis the XV policy was rather appropriate for the time and place ("parlement Maupéou"...), while Louis the XVIth policy was inept and made difficult problems much worse than they were....
That was the coolest video! One gets the sense of exactly how the people of Pernon lived! I can't believe BTW that the pigeons were ultimately responsible for ruining the surrounding farms seeds by eating them! It really doesn't make much sense that they would eliminate the crops around them that would be ultimately supplying the Pernon family food!
We're thrilled you enjoyed this episode. Understanding the causes of the French Revolution is complicated and contested... but the pigeons played their part!
Let's start with the fact that the nobility was exempted from paying taxes.
Actually they paid some , La Taille, la Capitation , with variations between Provinces . The historical justification for paying less taxes than the equally rich bourgeoisie being that unlike the Bourgeoisie they paid the blood tax (war). But of course in the 18th century there were less wars than few centuries before so that was anachronistic . The Kings tried to reform the system but as land was providing less revenues many nobles resisted the changes , especially the less affluent ones. The very top layer was more willing to give up their privileges which they did in 1789. Very complex situations that are often misrepresented . For those interested Francois Furet was one of the great historians of the period .
Such a tragic history but the beauty of the Chateau will hopefully be restored and be a monument to the people who built it on blood sweat and tears. There seems to be a story of great loss and sacrifice behind most grand edifices in Europe. Gives pause for thought indeed. Thanks for this fascinating history. Love the dog and hope in time you will get her a mate to play with!❤
I wish you both much success! :)))
Thank you both for this marvellous presentation of the historic life of its owners of Chateau de Perno and its building time - line. It was fascinating to see the tunnel taken by cooks and maids to the kitchens where they prepared luxurious meals for the nobles. I think you made a good point that, although of course some grand estates still have footmen, butlers and servants etc. - the welfare for those working in the Chateau may have been preferable than those of Tenant farmers who suffered terribly.
I had never known before about the pigeons being kept in such large quantities, according to law for nobles of certain rank, that lived of the farmers seeds which led to greater famine and and disaster.
I wish you both great good fortune with the restoration of the Chateau. I would love to have seen the letter, that saved the Chateau, translated to English. Xxxx ❤
Thank you , this was very interesting !
Truly excellent documentary, very educational.
Thank you so much for the history that surrounds your beautiful Chateau de Purnon, it is really fascinating. I love your channel, and I am so impressed, with your dedication and love to restore her to her formal glory, revealing her past, be it good or bad. Thank you again. Love from N.Y.
I really loved the history lesson about Purnon. So well done.
It's a beautiful chateau.❤
Love the history lesson as seen through this amazing chateau. Thank you for sharing 😍😘
Incredible video. Thanks for the history lesson. Thoroughly enjoyed!
Thank you for giving us lesser known details of the French Revolution and how your chateau fits into all of it.
Wonderful presentation! Merci beaucoup, Madame et Monsieur!
Hello from Nashville, Tennessee. It's always wonderful to learn history and see the faces of those who experienced French history firsthand. What an enormous responsibility for you both to take on such an endeavor such as this. The restoration and appropriate decorations of your home is such a task. You both work from a passionate labor of love! I always anticipate your new blogs to come! You guys make your blog fun, exciting, and educational for me! I appreciate your diligent work! Best of luck!
Magnifique bâtiment.....
Marvelous presentation and the history lesson above and beyond well done. i love history and loved hearing how the chateau existed in such hard times and why the revolution happened. What a great lesson thank you delightful in deed. ❤❤👏👏👏🥰🥰🇨🇦
Thanks very enlightening history
Great history episode and puts it all into context with the chateau! I've missed your videos and seeing the Chateau de Purnon restoration but realise your so busy, great work.
Loved listening to you on the history of Chateau Du Purnon, so interesting, thankyou from Tasmania ❤😊
I believe that today there is still this way of life of social or labor classes, between owner and worker, it is like a great hotel where each person has his function. Thank you for this beautiful video.❤😊
That’s an astute observation, the high-end hotel represents a pretty good facsimile of the upstairs, downstairs mentality in the modern era. Sounds like a good theme for a book!
To give the insight of how Chateau Purnon was affected by the revolution brings another level to it’s history…it seems it came to a letter written begging for it’s survival ..the sleuthing has revealed what could have been diminished with time..this as been such a great episode..thanking you both..I imagine that the dinner was a grand success..⭕️🦋⭕️
Thanks for your message. We're thrilled you enjoyed this episode.
'Well you know, we all want to save the world'. I really loved the video, thankyou. It's so good, and right, to get the story beyond the cliché of simple history. Keep up the good work.
Excellent job!
That’s fascinating history. It’s amazing this place has survived.
Fantastic documentary , enjoyed the history of Purnon, love your passion , congratulations and well done for all you’re both doing , looking forward for your next video from Point lonsdale Victoria Australia
I loved this. The music choice was impeccable. Could I ask that you reduce the volume of the curtain music as it is hard to hear the words over the music. Thank you.
@Gadgetmumma… glad you made that comment… as I also found it over powered the important commentary
Brilliant video full of history, facts and thoughts of life at ever time of the revolution. Petworth House in England was built with similar servants tunnels across the house and grounds. Staff. Not to be seen or heard.
Fascinating history, love your channel! Thank you from Ontaio, Canada.
Absolutely loved this episode - so interesting and inspiring to hear about the Revolution from the chateau's perspective. Superb - thank you!
I enjoyed your video and the fascinating history of your chateau. Blessings.
Great video🎉🎉
Excellent presentation, thank you so much . This knowledge adds even more interest to this restoration project.
That was just an amazing video. What a wonderful history lesson of the chateau. The rooms are gorgeous with great color combinations. Thank you so much for sharing.
Well done to both of you. Great presentation skills, content and production. 🌻
This is really fantastic. Thank you for the serious historical illustration of who was there and how they lived and what their fates were.
I can’t believe your having the event in Melbourne, where I am a mile away from France watching your video. I will try and make the event.
I watched your video and follow chateau renovations on RUclips but this one intrigued me as my husbands GGG uncle (Charles Ewart Ensign) fought in the battle of Waterloo and captured the flag which ended the war.
Loved watching it and the history you told ❤
Good luck
Excellent enlightening journey through Purnon s History Thank you monumental task to restore this Grand Chateau i watch for your videos .. Blessings & Good Luck
Fantastic episode!! So well produced and written. Fascinating history...
OMG! The work involved is overwhelming! Best of luck to both of you.🇨🇦
Such a brilliant approach to actually embrace and embed "context for content". Your undertaking of Purnon's restoration is perhaps not too far from today's global tumult and the national/international societal & fiscal shifts and tremors we collectively are experiencing. I applaud your focus and decided route to showcase the journey and both the fiscal & physical enablers of your astute business model.
I really enjoyed this, thank you 😊
I commend you on the restoration of this chateau. I look forward to your posts with baited breathe as they are part updates on your progress, but as well a throughly researched and splendid history lesson on the chateau, and events surrounding those who inhabited the magnificent building. I’m dumbfounded that this channel does not have over 250000 viewers as the restoration is monumental and fascinatingly presented. I suspect that with time as you progress it will pick up. The two wallpapers that were highlighted are exquisite. Too bad they couldn’t be reproduced as they are stunningly beautiful and I’m quite sure those hand blocked patterns would sell. Since I live in the Washington DC area we have buildings that are funded to be saved for eternity. Further I’ve been to mansions in Newport Rhode Island that have been rescued from destruction, and are maintained by the historical society as they are woven into the history of a bygone era of the US. Thus I am keenly aware of cost factors that surround both restorations, and then maintenance. Again my thanks for time in filming and your presentations. They are not un-noticed. Well done!
I found this video fascinating, I’m a history lover and I found your commentary mesmerising! Can’t wait for the next instalment, you two are truly admirable ❤
What an amazing video. I’m proud to be. Patron. ❤
How on earth can you afford the repairs, just curious because it is so beautiful.
Thank you. Very well done and presented. Great to have the life stories of those lived there. 👏🎶
Fabulous vision along with diligence! Amazing effort and true dedication to saving this beautiful Chateau! Pursuing this monumental task is very unique! The Chateau will now remain for a few more centuries! Way to go!
Fascinating story, thank you for sharing it.👩🏼
What an awesome video. Thank you! I appreciate so much your taking the time to educate us on the fascinating history of Purnon. I love your channel!
Fascinating history lesson, made more dramatic for being told from the Chateau's perspective. That view of the fields from the wind turbine tower (can't remember the proper name) was phenomenal, the colours and perspective look like a painting by a master. I bet those farmers resented those pigeons with a bitter passion that built with every sowing time, no wonder they revolted. Beautiful work on the filming and edit, I really enjoyed watching the video.❤
The editing on all your videos is amazing!!!
Thank you!
Much praise and love from England xxxx
I am absolutely speechless this documentary was absolutely fascinating and l cannot think of any two people more deserving to bring this beautiful Chateau back to its former glory thank you for sharing this with us all ❤
Great video
G'day. I do love the historical context you give, it's fascinating, as is the actual physical restoration. I do hope it's all going well there, the little snatches of work looks fabulous, looking forward to seeing more.
What an absolute joy to watch. Both of you are incredibly interesting and your passion shines through. It’s infectious. I wish you all the success in what is a monumental undertaking but one that is so worthwhile. Good luck.
Lovely historical video. Thank you !
what an amazing video im actually speechless please do more content
I really appreciate you addressing this aspect of history... and doing a very good job of it. All your videos are so professional and well put together. Well done !!
You are unique in the chateau reno universe in paying attention to the contributions made to chateau architecture, life and history made by the working classes. Every chateau was built on the bones of peasants, servants and artisanal workers as British, French, Dutch, Spanish, Portuguese and American fortunes were built on slavery. Thank you for acknowledging this.
You left out the Africans
Best history lesson Ive ever had 😂. I learnt a lot. Xx Kelly, from Melbourne
Well done. The research, the history, your story telling bring the events to a more personal level. As an architect and historical preservationist as well as a history buff, thank you. 👏👏
Fabulous production! The story of your wonderful chateau and its history should be a national treasure. I wish I could be at the launch event in Melbourne but sadly can't make it even though I'm not too far away (FNQld). I wish you all the best for the launch. I can't wait for the next installment.
Please tell us about yourselves more!
I just want to make one observation about the difference in social division. In 2024 we think servants living quarters are controversial and the dirty not so secret past. What frustrates me most is that you judge the people for having 4-50 servants on the grounds when in those periods people would have felt honored to work at these places. They had a safe place to live. They were given uniforms, a room, food, water, no taxes, medical care(when they had doctors)), taught to hunt/ride/art/cooking/farming/ whatever they needed. Some lived and raised families inside these chateau’s.
I am not naive I get the they were treated badly but it was a job. It was stability. It was a high social class then people who lived 15 family members in a three room apartment without heat. Having trouble finding jobs and food. Clothes were made by hand with horrible materials that were cast aways. Their children were uneducated. Most couldn’t read or write. They knew nothing about art, history, music, dancing, and many other subjects that people who lived there learned. They weren’t highborn but they also were low class. We work jobs and have people above you getting rich while you do the work. We have homeless, gutter rats, second class, middle class, high class. Judging before realizing everyone worked together to make sure that they all had a place to live. The better the families business do the better quality of life for everyone.
Your raise many interesting points. However, it's fair to say that the relationship between the servant class and the nobles that they served was complex in both France and Great Britain. We must be wary of presenting either too dire a picture or alternatively creating a somewhat idealised fantasy of what life was like. We prefer to present the history visually through the discoveries that we make. It is up to others to decide what conclusions to reach about the state of relations between the various social classes. But, be aware that just as Les Miserables or Oliver Twist may exaggerate the woes of the working classes, Downtown Abbey may also present too rosy a picture of the symbiotic relationship between nobles and their domestic staff. Thank you for your message and for following our journey.
Question for you guys Tim and Felicity 😊😊
Did the old lady and her family that gave you the keys to paradise, not have the money anymore and did they know about fhe level of patrimoine their home had? I guess they weren't as passionate as you both anymore? Or was therd another reason to sell the property? Thanks and kudos to both of you for this amazing adventure we are able to live along! 🙏🙏🙏
By the time the de Rochequairie family sold Chateau de Purnon in 2020 there were 11 different owners (from various branches of the family). That makes it very difficult to make long term decisions about the future of the chateau. They certainly understood its heritage value. After all they are the ones responsible for the Chateau's original heritage listing.
Thank you guys! Here in the Walloon part of the country a couple of years ago, even with public support and protests, a castle in bigger decay (unfortunately) than your chateau was ordered destroyed, because of lack of political will, the owner not having the means to bring it back to life...smaller country (Belgium) with less funds to finance big projects...sadly
If i were younger i'd gladly come volunteer to help you guys :)
Keep up the great work! Cheers
Are you referring to Chateau de Noisy in Namur? It's always very complicated when buildings reach a point where their unmanaged collapse could cause a catastrophe. If the owner could not restore it and could not sell it, there comes a point where public safety must be considered. Given the cost of demolition is not cheap, why did he not give it away? If no one would have accepted it, even for free, it does tell us something about the feasibility of restoration.
Yes that's it! I didn't remember the name. I am baffled by your knowledge!!
Of course you are right, when things got too far and dangerous there is no other option. But a sad Belgian story where official instancies did not have the funds to get as far as you...could have been the story of Purnon if only you came 5 years later?!
On the other hand we have tons of Art Nouveau buildings in pristine conditions that found private ownership (probably not the same pricetag as a french chateau?).
Thank you for your answers! Cheers Pascal
When we lose a little piece of our history, we lose a piece of ourselves. But we understand that not everything can be saved and governments (understandably) have many priorities and finite resources. We can only tackle what is in front of us, and for the two of us that project is saving Chateau de Purnon... so here we are! Best wishes and we hope you continue to enjoy our journey.
I watched this video again, it's so interesting.
I watch a lot of these chateau DIY videos and mentioned on another that the garden design may have another more practical aspect that no one ever mentions and I don't know is true. The great set back of forest from house could have served as a protection against forest fires? Those houses are treasure houses with valuable contents. All the estate buildings' exterior surfaces are constructed of fireproof materials.
It might be very interesting to search old records for any reference to forest fires? They may not have thought to keep records of weather or dry spells etc. but there must have been droughts? France suffered from frequent crop failures and famines before the 19th century. A period of crop failure and famine contributed to the start of the revolution. I don't know if it was a period of drought?
I am speechless. I am so glad you know your home's history so well. I am elated that you own paintings of former owners and people who lived there. It's all so fascinating to me. I live in Nashville, Tennessee. We have some history but not like France or your home! I hope all goes well for you all! If you guys ever have copies of your wallpapers made and sell them as a fundraiser method, please let me know! I love all of them!
Very well done. And yes, the civil war triggered by the Revolution saw some of the bloodiest fighting, and massacres, in Lyon.
Thank you - we're thrilled you enjoyed it.
It's amazing that through your hard work and video you testify that not only you are passionate about a Chateau but are real enthusiasts about European and French history. Being French I learned about the Revolution at school but never heard ( or was I distracted ? ) about the Eden Treaty, you Aussies told me about ;-) I can just say, keep up the good work, with your dedication and passion this Chateau and the people of that era have already revived !
Thanks for your message - we're thrilled you're enjoying our journey. We look forward to sharing our further progress with everyone.
Just found this one again. Well done. I see that I'd already seen this, but it's fresh to me again. So very much information is embedded in your project there. Wow again!
Thank you for your message and we hope you continue to enjoy our videos.
I thank you for the fascinating history of the Chateau with regard to the actual history of its beginning.
Loved reading all about you today in the Herald Sun newspaper. It is an amazing story and explains much about France's history. You are doing an amazing job, and i always look forward to your vlogs. From a Melbourne follower.
You are so brave to take this on. Now, having watched this video, i can see why so well explained . Please make some more.i wish i was younger i would love to restore something myself .
I am blown away by your enthusiasm and determination.
Thanks for your message. We're thrilled you enjoyed this episode.
Purnon is magnificent as art and beauty and vision for something extraordinary. Yet in chronicling the "inequality" that existed at this time in France, which I understand as a reality, the historical division between social classes would condemn Purnon to not only be neglected but to to be destroyed in the 21 century as a testament to an unacceptable social order- that is if it was here in the US. In the United States, even sympathetically acknowledging the disparity between persons of widely different socio-economic status in times past would not be adequate in justifying the continued existence of a statue, memorial, edifice of any type with any association to a particular unpopular societal stance. Fortunate for Purnon, it has escaped as solely a representation of an imperfect age. Your seemingly tireless efforts and devotion to rehabilitate the chateau are reassuring to believe such things are possible.
I have no words.
Thank you.
interesting and very well edited, however please beware of some shortfalls when considering the inequalities of pre-Revolution France ; France was by no means an aristocracy, State and regional administration was since the XVIIth century also governed by elite commoners. Also, it is true nobility and the Church did not pay taxes, but funded welfare (hospitals, schooling). Finally, the social divide you suggest was intended in many estates did not exist : peasants were peasants and lords were lords but communities were tightly knit. In the west of France, the uprising of the Vendée peasants, led by their lords (of which 300 000 were killed by the Republican army) testifies the strong bond between rural inhabitants.
Recent research establish now that the dead were 170 000, among which nearly 30 000 Republicans.
The Vendée was a very particular event in the French Revolution. Elsewhere, the bond between the aristocracy and commoners still remained (except in Paris, very few aristocratic people died during the Revolution : for example, during the "Terreur" 85% of the victims in Paris were from the common people and only 8,5% from the nobility) and no such thing like the Vendée wars happened.
Great information. Thank you for this great video!
Merci beaucoup pour ce cours très intéressant d'histoire du château et la famille du marquis. Bon courage à vous pour la restauration de ce magnifique monument historique.
Belle leçon d'histoire , merci
Tragic but beautiful storytelling.
The French Revolution left no one untouched. We're thrilled you found this episode interesting.
Nobody likes & wants a War.
Staff having a different entrance is not the worst. It is generally accepted in hotels, restaurants, etc.
Amazing insight into this time in history. Magnificently documented.
Thank you! We're thrilled you enjoyed it.
The Marquise’s maid would have thought she was in a great position, she had her own private bedroom!, plenty of food, and very nice clothing. Everything was done for her, laundry, cooking, etc. She would have been seen with envy by others of the lower classes. Nevertheless she was probably not able to marry, was on call 24/7, and had no ability to come and go as she pleased. The kitchen staff and scullery maids were much worse off, relentless heavy hot work, although unlike many of their countrymen they never went hungry.
You are quite right. And actually, all things considered, it is more or less the same life than the one we could see on a TV show like "Downton Abbey" : two separate entrances for domestics and masters ; domestics living downstairs or in small rooms in the attic ; domestics not to be seen… To be honest, after the events of the Revolution, life of aristocratic and wealthy people got back to what they were. The Revolution changed the political institutions, not the way of life. In 1830, a French marquis lived exactly the same way than an English one 🙂
Really love this, great quality!!
Thrilled you enjoyed this episode.
Amazing video merci.
Thank you! We're thrilled you enjoyed this episode.
Thank you for your explanation of
late 18th century social life.
Social inequality is still there in the lifes of millions on earth.
Also in France today.