An American's Home is His Castle
One evening in 2013, a casual internet search changed the life of Hollywood producer and performer Hopwood DePree forever. Throughout his childhood, his mother and grandfather had told stories of his maternal ancestors, the Hopwoods, members of the English aristocracy. There was even supposed to be a country house somewhere in the UK where they'd lived for more than 500 years. Although the family name died out when his great-great grandmother married, 'Hopwood' was preserved as a first or middle name, something which was more often a source of embarrassment rather than pride for the youngest Hopwood. As an adult, however, he started to wonder how much of the story was true, and began climbing the family tree further than ever before. That night nearly ten years ago, he finally found Hopwood Hall, and before long the fate of both DePree and the neglected mansion were inextricably linked. Sadly, the house had been empty for decades, targeted by vandals and was literally falling apart. Could it ever be brought back from the brink?
Old House, New Home
Despite the challenges faced by the author and other friends of Hopwood Hall, 'Downton Shabby' has to be the most lively, romantic and cheerful book that I've read all year. The narrative bounces along thanks to DePree's incredible optimism and enthusiasm. Impressively, it never becomes waring or tiring, mainly because the author is able to laugh at himself too. There are many anecdotes about the differences between US and British culture, which are generally handled well and without judgement on either side. It does worry me that no one told him about Guy Fawkes night, but then perhaps some elements of the story were exaggerated for comic effect. I hope so, poor guy!
Deeper Foundations
Pretty much the only criticism I have (apart from the silly bit in the middle about a ghost and the fact Hopwood Hall is not a castle) is that I got a bit distracted by the more pragmatic questions that came to mind while reading 'Downton Shabby'. Some information was repeated too frequently - like the reason why the house was sold in the 1920s - while I felt it would've helped to understand more of the law around historic buildings. For example, I'm sure there must be dos and don'ts when it comes to restorations, factors which would've impacted upon the Hopwood Hall work, and it would've added gravitas and grounded the story. Going by the light tone, however, I can understand why this may have been excluded.
Overall
This book felt so much like a Hollywood film or TV romantic-comedy series* that there were times when I couldn't believe it was non-fiction. All that was missing was a love interest, but then remember that Elizabeth Bennet didn't like Mr Darcy much until she saw Pemberley! If nothing else, I definitely want a sequel further down the line letting us know how things are progressing. The British love eccentrics and country houses and 'Downton Shabby' brings both together in an entertaining rollercoaster ride through history, family and friendship. It has a surprising amount to say about teamwork, passion, transferrable skills and community too, and I really enjoyed it.
Now, what next..?
'Downton Shabby: One American's Ultimate DIY Adventure Restoring his Family's English Castle' by Hopwood DePree was published in the US by William Morrow, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers in 2022. Cover image kindly provided by the publisher. This post is based on the hardback edition. For more information about the Hopwood Hall Estate, please visit the foundation's website.
*HINT! Please, someone, make this into a BBC or ITV TV series!
