Edith Pretty - the woman behind the remarkable discoveries at Sutton Hoo. © Sutton Hoo
The winter exhibition at Sutton Hoo reveals the life story of Edith Pretty, the instigator and sponsor of the 1939 excavations at the site, which led to the discovery of a magnificent Anglo-Saxon ship burial and treasure.
Offering a fascinating insight into her life as a Cheshire socialite and her time at Sutton Hoo, the exhibition includes items donated by the Pretty family, including a recently-acquired portrait of Edith’s son, Robert.
Little was known about Edith, until National Trust colleagues Chris Durrant and Mary Skelcher started researching her life three years ago.
The visitor centre at Sutton Hoo. © Sutton Hoo
“We were fortunate that Edith’s family became interested in the project and generously donated a portrait of Edith, which formed the centrepiece of last winter’s temporary exhibition,” explained Mary, who is now Visitor Services Manager at Sutton Hoo.
Last year’s exhibition proved so successful and popular with visitors that staff have now decided to re-stage it again this winter, with some new displays, including a very personal collection of travel journals, letters and photographs of Edith and her family, to give visitors an insight into her life.
The newly donated portrait of Edith Pretty’s son, Robert, aged 8 years was painted in 1939 at Sutton Hoo by long-term Suffolk resident Cor Visser. The portrait has however suffered from damp and mould damage and Sutton Hoo will be looking to fundraise to cover the costs of the conservation work that is needed to restore it to its former glory.
The newly donated portrait of Edith Pretty’s son, Robert, aged 8. © Sutton Hoo
The exhibition also marks the launch of a social history project to capture memories and stories of Sutton Hoo.
“Sutton Hoo is one of Britain’s foremost archaeological sites, but it’s also a place rich in personal stories and experiences. We are aiming to capture as many of these recollections as we can,” added Mary.
If you have lived at, worked or visited Sutton Hoo between 1930 and 1990 staff there are keen to hear your story. Contact them on 01394 389701, or email suttonhoo@nationaltrust.org.uk or leave a message at the visitor centre.
