Who would believe that Sunbury Court has a rich and varied past? It is now a Salvation Army conference center. But its story stretches back centuries.
Sunbury Court stands in Sunbury-on-Thames in Surrey. Since the 1920s, the Salvation Army has owned Sunbury Court. It serves as the meeting place for the High Council of The Salvation Army.
Let’s rewind. Once upon a time, this land was part of the Royal Manor of Kempton. Kings like Henry III, Edward I, and Edward II frequented this manor. Sadly, the Royal Manor of Kempton met its end in 1374.
Fast forward to 1723. John Witt erected the structure we see today at Sunbury Court. His estate grew to span over one hundred acres. It stretched along the Thames River. Witt sold the estate in 1735. It changed hands again in 1751 and 1755.
Anna Maria Delegard became the owner. In 1764, she married George Fermor. He then took ownership of Sunbury Court until 1799. From 1799 to 1863, owners refurbished the estate. They added new wings to Sunbury Court. William Horatio Harfield was Sunbury Court’s last private owner. After his death, the property sat vacant for two decades. The Salvation Army purchased it in 1921.
The Salvation Army uses Sunbury Court for important events. It hosts the High Council here. This group elects the General of the Salvation Army. British law mandates that the High Council meets in the United Kingdom. However, it doesn’t specify where. The first High Council convened at Sunbury Court in 1929. They gathered to discuss General Bramwell Booth’s fitness to lead after he fell ill. In May 2023, the High Council elected Lyndon Buckingham as general. Most of the Army’s High Councils have occurred at Sunbury Court. Exceptions include the elections of Generals Evangeline Booth, George Carpenter, and Andre Cox.
Beyond the High Council, Sunbury Court functions as a conference center. It hosts various Salvation Army activities. In the 1990s, the Army expanded Sunbury Court. They added a boardroom and guest housing.
In 1961, Emil Soderstrom composed a march titled “Sunbury Court”. It honored Sunbury Court.
Sunbury Court faced potential destruction. The Salvation Army’s purchase saved it. Today, it serves as a conference center. It welcomes thousands of delegates each year.
When you step inside Sunbury Court, you’re surrounded by history. The 250-year-old drawing room showcases artistry. Elias Martin, a Swedish painter, created frescoes here. These frescoes depict pastoral scenes. They feature gothic landscapes.
The hallway that connects the dining room and lounge has a moulded ceiling. A skylight adds to its charm. The hexagonal lounge features a crystal chandelier. It consists of 3,000 pieces. Many believe it is an original artifact. Victorian mirrors and a Regency fireplace add elegance.
The curved main staircase remains largely unchanged. It reflects the mansion’s early 18th-century design. A spiral staircase is also present. It provided staff access to kitchens and storerooms.
Colonel Harfield added Victorian wings in the late 19th century. These wings blend with the older structure. The east wing houses the Library and Reception Hall. It features a black and white marble floor. The west wing contains the Conference Room.
Mention Sunbury Court to any Salvationist and they will likely recognize it. It’s where they elect the General. Sunbury Court has international recognition. It has played a role in important moments in the Army’s history. Sunbury Court has served the Army well over the years. It has been a gathering place for young and old. It has functioned as an eventide home. It has provided recreation for soldiers and airmen during the war. It’s a conference center for various groups. There are no ghosts here at Sunbury Court. There is a spirit linking its past and present. Every visitor experiences this enchanting heritage.