January, 2005

Do you know that the origin of the word HOCTON is Saxon and means High settlement Hill? Since then many variations of this ancient name have arisen—de Hoghton, Hoghton, Houghton and Haughton, and it is because we share this tie that I feel at liberty to write to you. You may be interested in helping us preserve the centre of our family's beginnings, HOGHTON TOWER, as well as knowing a little about the family's origins in England.

The house that has been described as 'the most dramatic looking house in Lancashire....enjoys more extensive and dramatic views than almost any other house in England'. Hoghton, rebuilt 1560-1565, is a marvellous example of a fortified Tudor manor house, perched on its high hill 700 ft. above sea level, and surrounded by woods on three sides. The house accommodates two elegant and spacious courtyards, behind the more aggressive facade of its gatehouse, battlements, and supporting towers. The fabric is all local stone and oak, and, from a distance, appears like a fortified town. I could go on, but I think these photographs speak louder than my words.

Anyway, though the house still stands proudly on its hill, its continued existence is in jeopardy. Over the years, we, the family, have successfully undertaken a preservation campaign to eradicate a massive outbreak of dry rot totalling GB Pounds 250,000. A sum double that amount will be required in future years for the re-roofing, re-pointing and replacing of gutters, downspouts, et cetera. The Livery Tower and the King James Stables and Coach House block have been singled out for HAA support.

Following our initial success and bearing in mind Hoghton Tower's international importance, we are encouraged to approach all members of the wider Hoghton family overseas. We have now obtained full UK charity status for the 'Hoghton Tower Preservation Trust' and would be grateful to you for any personal donation you may be able to make.

It may interest you to know that the house is open to the public during July, August and September Sunday through to Thursday as well as Bank Holiday Sundays and Mondays. If you are able to visit us, you will be assured a warm welcome.

Yours sincerely,

Sir Bernard de Hoghton Bt., DL