3-008-632 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Melrose Hall, [Putney], 1862. 'This mansion, which has been the residence for a short time of our illustrious visitor the Viceroy of Egypt, is situated at the top of Putney-hill, near the Heath, and within a mile of the village. It was erected about ninety years since by Daniel Rucker, Esq., one of our wealthy merchant princes, the head of a family still resident in the neighbourhood and widely respected. The hospitalities exercised by Mr. Rucker and his family are still in the recollection of many. Upon the death of Mr. Rucker the hall became the property of the late Duke of Sutherland, and under the tasteful direction of the Duchess its beauties were increased and its fame more widely extended by her Grace's delightful receptions of the nobility and of distinguished foreigners, among whom were many of the crowned heads of Europe. The house and park are now the property of John Beaumont, Esq., of the Wimbledon Park House. The palatial character of the building, its commanding position, and the beauty of the surrounding scenery, covered with noble oaks of the richest foliage, have long rendered it one of the most charming of our country houses'. From "Illustrated London News", 1862.