Taximerdy at Calke Abbey

Photograph of people looking at stuffed animals in glass cases and animal heads on walls at Calke Abbey.

Taxidermy was a particular interest of the 10th Baron, Sir Vauncey Harpur Crewe. Sir Vauncey dedicated a lot of his time in building up his enormous collection of stuffed birds, bird's eggs and lepidoptera. His collection included birds shot by himself and also specimens bought from dealers and taxidermists. The family papers, held at Derbyshire Record Office, includes many brochures and receipts for pruchases.

By the time of Sir Vauncey's death, the taxidermy collection numbered several thousand cases. Some of the collection was sold to meet heavy death duties, however, much remains at Calke and can be seen by those visiting the property, now in the care of the National Trust.