Why History Matters: The Countess of Derby’s History Study Days

The Countess of Derby’s second series of Why History Matters study days at Knowsley Hall explores the lives and legacies of the 13th and 14th Earls of Derby. With expert speakers, rare journals, and guided tours of the Hall, these events reveal how the Derby family shaped British political, cultural, and artistic life across six centuries.

Wednesday 15th October 2025 - Thursday 16th October 2025

Event type: Physical

Why History Matters: The Countess of Derby’s History Study Days

Details:

The Life and Legacy of the 13th Earl of Derby, Art Collector, Conservationist and Natural Historian

Wednesday 15th October 2025 9:30am - 5:00pm

The Countess of Derby has launched the second series of her history study days – ‘Why History Matters’ following the success of the first events held in July at Knowsley Hall. This innovative History programme aims to inspire, entertain, and educate by bringing to life 600 years of British history through the fascinating stories of the Derby family and their ancestral home, Knowsley Hall. The study days offer a fresh perspective on British history, showcasing the pivotal role the Derby family has played in shaping political, cultural, and artistic life across the centuries and why history matters.

The October programme is two reflective sessions: The Life and Legacy of the 13th Earl of Derby and The Life and Legacy of the 14th Earl of Derby, celebrating the enduring impact of these influential figures who were both held a profound belief in the importance of education for social mobility. During the day there will be the opportunity to tour Knowsley Hall with the Countess of Derby as your guide.

15th October 2025 - The Life and Legacy of the 13th Earl of Derby

An exclusive study day focusing on the life and legacy of the 13th Earl of Derby: natural historian and patron of the watercolourist and “Nonsense” writer Edward Lear.

Speakers:

Caroline Derby
Dr Alan Crosby
Dr Clemency Fisher
Jenny Uglow
Frank Cottrell Boyce – 2024 Children’s Poet Laureate

The Life and Legacy of the 14th Earl of Derby: Prime Minister three times to Queen Victoria

Thursday 16th October 2025 9:30am - 5:00pm

This study day is devoted to the two largely unknown travel journals - ‘A Grand Tour Journal 1820 – 1822’ and ‘A North American Journal 1824 – 1825 The Making of a Prime Minister’ - of Edward Geoffrey Smith-Stanley, 14th Earl of Derby, later three times Prime Minister to Queen Victoria and the longest serving party leader in British political history.

Speakers: