![]() This “took little account of the abilities of an average intellect,” says Blakeway. Commenting on his parenting style, he once remarked: “There is certainly a great charm, as well as deep interest, in watching the development of feelings and faculties in a little child.”īut Albert also had unreasonably high standards for his children, developing a rigorous educational programme for each of them. He certainly played an active role in raising his children (unlike many husbands and fathers in this period). He was also heavily involved in the landscaping of the grounds, and would reportedly direct gardeners while standing at the top of one of the house’s two towers.Īlbert “was a new type of father, ahead of his time, with a hands-on approach to child rearing” says writer and documentary producer Denys Blakeway. Albert contributed significantly to the design of the new property – an Italian Renaissance-style palazzo. On Cubitt’s recommendation, the original house was demolished and a new house was built from scratch. Thus, in 1848, Albert commissioned the master builder Thomas Cubitt (who had previously worked on the Duke of Westminster’s Belgravia estate in London) to remodel the home. It is “impossible to imagine a prettier spot,” she wrote of the estate.Īs Victoria and Albert’s family expanded, it became apparent that the original house – once owned by Lady Isabella Blachford – required an extension. Victoria was enormously fond of the house, using it for more than 50 years to host visitors. With its extensive grounds and secluded location, it was the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of London life. In May 1845, Victoria and Albert purchased the Osborne estate on the Isle of Wight for the princely sum of £28,000.
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