Subscribe to trusted local news
In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.
- Subscription costs less than £1 a week with an annual plan.
Already a subscriber? Log in here.
30
Sept 2023
Royal recognition for the American who saved Allerton Castle
Forty years ago, Allerton Castle near Knaresborough was in a dilapidated state.
The castle was built between 1848 and 1854 on the estate given to William Mauleverer, who came to England with William the Conqueror.
But when Dr Gerald Rolph bought it in 1983, the roof leaked and it was riddled with rot.
Dr Rolph, an American classic car enthusiast who made a fortune at the pioneering electronics company Tandy Corporation, had considered buying other great British homes but was drawn to Allerton's Castle's gothic revival style.
Today it is one of the finest buildings in the north of England. The Great Hall, with its balconies, staircase and hammer-beam ceiling, gives visitors an immediate sense of grandeur.
The Great Hall at Allerton Castle. Pic: Chris Chambers
Dr Rolph not only funded the renovation, but also travelled the world to find the beautiful artefacts that now fill the rooms.
Allerton Castle attracts visitors and wedding parties and has also hosted everything from film crews to Europe's Strongest Man.
This week, Dr Rolph was awarded an OBE for services to historic preservation and conservation for his restoration of Allerton Castle.
Queen Elizabeth II awarded the honour but covid delayed the ceremony. Now aged 90, and unable to fly, he made a 13-day journey on board the Queen Elizabeth ship to receive the OBE off Jo Ropner, the lord-lieutenant of North Yorkshire, at her Camp Hill home near Bedale.
Dr Rolph with Jon B Wright, a trustee of his foundation.
Looking back at his first visit to Allerton, Dr Rolph told the Stray Ferret:
In 2005, just as the restoration was almost complete, fire destroyed about a third of the castle. Undeterred, he simply redoubled his efforts.
In 2016, Dr Rolph gifted the castle, its contents, grounds and estate to the UK charity The Gerald Arthur Rolph Foundation for Historic Preservation and Education, which was formed to preserve Allerton Castle for English and world heritage.
Dr Rolph in Allerton Castle
Dr Rolph, a private man who visits England about three times a year, said the honour meant a lot but he was embarrassed to be catapulted into the limelight.
He said he enjoyed England's beauty and way of life, but times were changing and the castle was a testament to the country's heritage.
Did he have a message to local people who have regularly driven by Allerton Castle but perhaps never visited?
0