The People Behind Ham House and How They Used Power Flashcards

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Who first built Ham House and how did he get the land?

Ham House was first built for Sir Thomas Vavasour around 1610. King James I gave him the land as a reward for his service at court.

Who was William Murray in relation to Charles I?

William Murray was a close childhood friend of Charles I. He later became Groom of the Bedchamber to the king.

How did William Murray gain control of Ham House?

In 1626 Charles I granted Ham House to William Murray. The king rewarded him for his loyal service at court.

How did William Murray use his role at court to increase his power?

As Groom of the Bedchamber, Murray saw the king in private. This access helped him gain titles, money and estates like Ham House.

Who was Elizabeth Murray and why is she important to Ham House?

Elizabeth Murray was William Murray's daughter and heir. She became the 2nd Countess of Dysart and took control of Ham House.

How did Elizabeth Murray keep Ham House during the Civil War and Cromwell’s rule?

She used lawyers and trusted friends to hold the estate in their names. She also paid fines to Parliament so they did not seize Ham House.

How did Elizabeth Murray use marriage to increase her power?

Her first marriage to Sir Lionel Tollemache linked her to a rich landowning family. Her second marriage to John Maitland tied her to one of Charles II’s top ministers.

Who was John Maitland, Duke of Lauderdale?

John Maitland was a powerful nobleman and minister under Charles II. He became Elizabeth Murray’s second husband and co-owner of Ham House.

How did the Duke of Lauderdale use Ham House to show and use his power?

He spent large sums to rebuild and decorate Ham House in the latest style. He held meetings and entertained important guests there to win support for his plans.

How did Elizabeth Murray use Ham House to show her status after the Restoration?

She filled the rooms with rich furnishings and rare objects. She used the house to host leading nobles and show her closeness to the king.

How did the size and organisation of the Ham House household reflect power?

The owners employed many servants, such as stewards, cooks and gardeners. The strict ranks among staff showed the owners’ control over daily life.

Why does Elizabeth Murray show that some women could have power in Restoration England?

She owned land in her own right, planned building work and managed money. Her control of Ham House shows that a noblewoman could shape politics and society.