John Clopton (c.1423–1497) Builder of Two Great Late Medieval Icons: Melford Church & Kentwell Hall.

A Life in Troublesome Times.

Step into the turbulent world of 15th-century England with a stimulating evening talk by Kentwell Hall’s owner and historian Patrick Phillips KC, exploring the remarkable life of John Clopton, one of the most significant figures in Melford’s history.

Living through the chaos of the Wars of the Roses dynastic rivalry between different lines of the sons of King Edward III which crystallised the lines of Lancaster and York, John Clopton had to navigate shifting allegiances, political intrigue and dynastic conflict affecting the Crown. Convicted of treason alongside five powerful East Anglian Lancastrians and condemned to death, Clopton was pardoned by the new Yorkist King the 18 year old Edward IV... an outturn of events that Patrick will discuss.

This fascinating talk will trace Clopton’s rise from his early years amid the instability of Henry VI’s reign to his role as a prominent Suffolk landowner, royal servant and visionary builder. Discover how his life intersected with some of the defining figures and events of the age, including the Earl of Oxford, Richard Duke of York, Warwick the Kingmaker, Edward IV and William, later Lord Hastings.

Patrick will also explore John Clopton’s enduring legacy as the mainspring behind the transformation of Holy Trinity Church in Long Melford, one of the great wool churches of medieval England. As well his impact upon the old house of Lutons first to improve what he inherited and then build the first and main part of the magnificent brick house now known as Kentwell Hall, what became the Knetwell Hall of today. The talk examines how architecture, power, status and survival intertwined during one of the most dramatic periods in English history.

A compelling insight into the man whose vision helped shape both Long Melford’s Church and Kentwell Hall as we know them today.

Price includes: Talk, followed by discussion with Nibbles and Soft Drinks