Ep 16. Secrets of Chatsworth

PBS Specials season 3 episode 16 presents the viewers with an intriguing tour of the magnificent Chatsworth, a grand estate nestled in the Peak District of England. Known as one of the finest estates of Britain, Chatsworth has been home to the Cavendish family for over 400 years and is still owned by them.

The episode opens with an exploration of the estate's sprawling gardens, which span over 100 acres and comprise many different sections, including the famous Cascade, the Emperor Fountain, the Rockery, and the Grotto. The viewers get to witness the marvels of these gardens in their full glory, with drone cameras capturing breathtaking shots of waterfalls, sculptures, and floral arrangements. The history and maintenance of these gardens are also discussed, showcasing a rich legacy of gardeners who have worked hard to keep the gardens in their finest form.

Moving on from the gardens, the episode takes the viewers inside the Chatsworth House, which houses an impressive collection of art, artifacts, and furniture, amassed by the Cavendish family over the decades. The cameras zoom in on some of the priceless works of art, including paintings by Old Masters, such as Rembrandt and Van Dyck, and a significant collection of ancient Roman statues. The historical significance of these artifacts and their ties to the family history is also explored in depth, giving a sense of the cultural legacy of the family.

The show also provides glimpses into some of the most private areas of the house, such as the bedrooms, the library, and the chapel. The viewers get to learn about the importance of each room's function and how the family and their staff have always strived to maintain the authenticity of these areas.

But the real highlight of the episode is the story of the Cavendish family's tumultuous history, punctuated by political intrigue, love affairs, and scandals. The episode explores the political clout that the family wielded in the past, including the role of William Cavendish, the 4th Earl of Devonshire, in the ouster of James II and in the establishment of the Dutch King William's reign. The family's ardent political activism and influence on British politics form a major theme of the episode.

The show also delves into some of the family's popular scandals, such as the love triangle between the 6th Duke of Devonshire, his wife, and Lady Elizabeth Foster and the tragic end of Kathleen Kennedy, sister of President John F. Kennedy, who died in a plane crash while touring India with the 11th Duke of Devonshire. Through these stories, viewers get a glimpse of the family's personal history, revealing its ups and downs, triumphs, and tragedies.

Overall, Secrets of Chatsworth is a well-crafted episode that takes the viewers on an entertaining trip through the world of the British aristocracy. It successfully blends the richness of Chatsworth's cultural heritage with its family history, giving the audience an inside look at the lifestyles of the rich and powerful.