THE Clopton Family of Stratford was the subject of a lecture by Mairi MacDonald.

The speaker explained how the landowning dynasty was a focus of aspiration and support for generations of Stratford folk.

A colourful Clopton was Hugh, who acquired Shakespeare's former home, New Place.

The Bard had previously planted a mulberry tree in the garden. Hugh, tired of tourists asking for cuttings as souvenirs and dug up the tree.

Hugh rarely lived in New Place. As such, he considered it inappropriate to pay rates. The authorities disagreed, so Hugh demolished New Place.

Several generations earlier, another Hugh Clopton had built New Place in 1483. His building portfolio included Clopton Bridge that enabled trading access to the town from the east. A wealthy man, Hugh became a great benefactor to Stratford.

The next talk, The Victorian House, will be presented by Nicole Burnett, museum consultant, at 8pm on Wednesday, May 11, at the Greig Centre.

Ms Burnett will discuss the architecture and interior design of late Victorian town housing.

The historian will explore the house room by room, examining general layout through to the finer details of interior decor.

Members and visitors are welcome.