“Motorists beware!” It seems Montrose House has a history of surprising drivers. This late 17th-century building stands on a sharp bend of Petersham Road. It is located in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames.
Montrose House is more than just a pretty facade. It has witnessed centuries of London life. The house is a Grade II* listed building. This designation recognizes its special architectural and historical significance.
Originally, Montrose House was built for Sir Thomas Jenner. He was a Justice of the Common Pleas under James II. However, the house is named after the Dowager Duchess of Montrose. She was the widow of the 3rd Duke. She resided here from 1837 to 1847.
In the 1870s, John Master called Montrose House home. He was a retired magistrate from the Indian Colonial Service. He lived there with his wife Gertrude and their children. One of their daughters, Hilda Master, became the mother of Sir Anthony Blunt.
Later in 1969, the entertainer Tommy Steele purchased Montrose House. He owned it until about 2004. Imagine Tommy Steele walking through these very rooms.
The sharp bend outside Montrose House caused many accidents. In the 1850s, neighbors formed a group called Trustees of the Road. They sought to improve safety. The Hon. Algernon Tollemache of Ham House led the effort. They convinced the owner of Montrose House to sell some land. This reduced the sharpness of the bend. However, dents in the brick wall still show that drivers are sometimes caught off guard.
Next door to Montrose House sits Rutland Lodge. It was built in 1660. It was made for a Lord Mayor of London.
Montrose House has even been captured in art. Wilfred Fairclough created a drawing of the rear of the house in July 1941. It was part of the “Recording Britain” collection. These watercolors and drawings documented Britain during the Second World War. The drawing is now held at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
So, as you stand before Montrose House remember its rich past. Think of the judges, duchesses, magistrates, entertainers, and artists who have walked here. Consider the efforts to make the road a little safer. Montrose House stands as a testament to London’s enduring history. It has survived through centuries and countless stories.