"Home, Chatterley"

Mr. Wood purchased the Glendon property in his mid-fifties, and had Glendon Hall Manor built in 1922. He was a successful man and financier and was connected with the York Club, the National Club, the National Trust Co., Massey Harris and Dominion Securities.

My mother became Mrs. Wood's social secretary in 1932, and enjoyed the position for many years. Sometimes I was invited to have dinner with Mr. & Mrs. Wood. Chatterley, the chauffeur would pick me up and would drive my mother and me home after. On all that 100-acre estate there were only four of us for dinner. There was an upstairs and downstairs maid, two chauffeurs, Chatterley and Trelevan, and five gardeners, headed by Mackintosh.

My mother's office was on the second floor. One great event every year was a garden party under a huge canopy. The guests were elegantly dressed, the men in tails and top hats. I was an onlooker, then age 16.

Twice Mr. & Mrs. Wood took my mother to London and Paris. One day Mrs. Wood came to my house with her chauffeur to see my new baby, Donald. She sat in my living room and chatted. I was thrilled!

My mother was concerned that the property should be left to the University of Toronto. She spoke to some influential people regarding this. Her hopes were fulfilled. After the death of Mrs. Wood in 1950 Glendon became part of York. I have many happy memories of Glendon Hall Manor and Glendon Hall. The latter has changed amazingly from two people with their servants to a campus for advanced learning.

 

Mrs. Frances Macnaughton