“What secrets does this grand estate hold?” I ask you now.
Welcome to Headington Hill Hall. It stands proudly on Headington Hill in Oxford. This is more than just a building. It is a landmark with a rich history.
In 1824 the Morrell family built this hall. They were local brewers. The Morrells lived here for 114 years. Later Headington Hill Hall became home to Pergamon Press. Media tycoon Robert Maxwell also resided here. Today Oxford Brookes University’s School of Law occupies it.
Let’s journey back to the mid-19th century. James Morrell Jr. extended the hall between 1856 and 1858. He commissioned architect John Thomas. Together they created an Italianate mansion. Tragedy struck when James and his wife Alicia died. Their young daughter Emily inherited the estate.
A story tells of Emily’s love for a cousin. Worried trustees sent her away. They forbade communication. But love prevailed. Emily eventually married her cousin.
Headington Hill Hall saw grand celebrations. Oscar Wilde attended a fancy dress ball here in 1878. He was dressed as Prince Rupert. Lady Ottoline Morrell owned the hall later. She hosted the Bloomsbury Group.
During World War II the government requisitioned the property. It served as a military hospital. After the war the Red Cross and Order of St John ran a rehabilitation centre here.
In 1953 James Morrell III sold Headington Hill Hall to Oxford City Council. It remained a rehabilitation centre until 1958.
Robert Maxwell leased the building in later years. He called it the “best council house in the country”. Maxwell installed a stained-glass window. It depicted Samson at the Gates of Gaza. Israeli sculptor Nehemia Azaz created it.
Since 1992 Oxford Brookes University has leased the property. The School of Law resides here now.
James Morrell senior’s story is also interesting. He married Jane Wharton from Headington in 1807. After her death he bought land on Headington Hill. He wanted a healthy country estate for his children.
In 1825 a court case revealed the original architect and builder. It also named the brick supplier. The architect was Mr. Garbett.
By 1858 the hall had grown into a 51-room mansion. It housed 19 indoor servants. James Morrell junior also created exotic gardens. These are now Headington Hill Park.
The enlarged garden was described in detail in 1880. It included what is now South Park.
Robert Maxwell’s time at Headington Hill Hall was eventful. He built new offices. He reinforced the fence with barbed wire. Guards patrolled the entrance.
Headington Hill Hall has seen many changes. From the Morrell family to Robert Maxwell. Now it is a place of learning. Oxford Brookes University carries on its story. The building stands as a testament to time. It connects the past with the present.