Lord Ashton

His Power

His Family

The Lino Kings

His Empire

The Workers

His Wife

During his lifetime Lord Ashton bought a number of properties. He owned a London residence, Alford House in Knightsbridge, and built up a sizeable estate to the south of Lancaster. However, Lord Ashton lived mostly at Ryelands in Skerton, an area of Lancaster across the River Lune from his linoleum works where much of his work lodged.

In order to look after the family and to tend the house and gardens a number of servants were required. In 1881 the Ryelands household records a modest resident staff of four: a governess from London, a housekeeper, a cook and a housemaid. A gardener lived in the lodge and in the lodges of the neighbouring house, Lune Villa - another Williamson property - were a gardener and a coachman. It is possible that further daily helpers were employed.

Ryelands provided ample gardens with a cycle track, and orchard, hot-houses and cattle pastures. Using a local architects firm, Paley & Austin, Williamson made various improvements to the estate. In 1883 he added an extension to the 1830s house and had a stable and farmyard built for his horses, cows, chickens and pig.

To preserve Lord Ashton's privacy, all this was well hidden form the people of Skerton by a high perimeter wall. However, in 1885 when Williamson was appointed High Sheriff, he did throw open the grounds of his home for a splendid luncheon party. He invited all his 'friends and neighbours' that is, all male residents within 8 to 10 miles of Lancaster. In all he fed nearly 10,500 people in sittings of about 1,900. The menu included salmon, beef, ham, roast chicken, lamb, roast duckling, meat pies, fruit tarts and stewed fruit. An average sitting lasted between 40-45 minutes after which visitors were free to walk around the parkland. The afternoon was concluded with a large procession from Ryelands to Lancaster Castle, through streets decorated for the occasion.