Please introduce yourself and tell us a little about your background.
My name is Patty. I’m originally from New York City, but have lived in multiple states, much of my adult life in Colorado where I raised three children. They are all married, with families, and I have eight grandchildren. I now live in Arizona. I have a B.A. in History, sparked by my interest in Tudor England! I was a teacher for a short time, but spent most of my career as a librarian. I’ve been fortunate to visit the U.K. eight times, one time taking my then young children and my husband on a narrowboat adventure down the Grand Union Canal.
What ignited your passion for Tudor history?
At the age of 14, my mother convinced me to sit with her and watch “Six Wives of Henry VIII” with Keith Michell, on Masterpiece Theatre. I was reluctant, but after 10 minutes, I was totally hooked! I went to the library and took out a stack of books on Henry and his wives, both fiction and nonfiction. It became quite the obsession for me – I couldn’t get enough – and even tried to convince my mother to get a job in England so we could move there. She actually tried, as it was just the two of us. It never panned out, but it all started me on the road to everything Tudor!
What’s something you love about where you live?
No snow! And tons of sunshine.
What are your hobbies?
Reading, writing, learning Arizona gardening, editing and proofreading for friends and family and watching lots of British TV. I have a subscription to Acorn, as well as PBS, so I can get not only all the fun mystery series and dramas, but also shows like Digging for Britain, Time Team, and Lucy Worsley specials. I love anything archaeological. It’s my biggest regret that I did not pursue a career in archaeology.
What’s been one of your favourite episodes of ‘Talking Tudors’, and why?
The episode with Melanie-Backe Hansen was one. It was so fascinating! Something physical from times past by researching houses. There was one about music which I loved as well. Really, I’ve loved every episode I’ve listened to!
Share a brief story. It can be inspiring, funny, spooky, heartwarming or historical. Anything you like!
In 2007, I had the great privilege to spend 6 weeks in the beautiful Kent countryside volunteering at Ightham Mote, a lovely National Trust property. It had been my dream to actually “live” there for a short time, rather than be a tourist, and due to my history degree and passion for British history, I was taken on as a room steward. I rented a tiny place called Strawberry Cottage, about a 15-minute drive from Ightham Mote. I truly enjoyed showing visitors around, and also was able to spend time at Guest Services, in the gardens, and in the archives with the House Archivist. At the end of my time there, I was treated to a lovely early evening of wine and nibbles with all the house staff and volunteers. The House Manager, Bernadette Gillow, was kind enough to try and enable me to stay on as paid staff, as they had a few openings, but as a non-EU resident, I was unable to work through the red tape. I stay in touch with Bernadette by email and look forward to hopefully getting back for a visit in the next few years. I followed up my stint there with an article published in British Heritage Magazine entitled, “Lending a Hand at Ightham Mote”.
When do you listen to Talking Tudors?
I was listening constantly while at the gym, but with the gyms closed to Covid-19, I work out less, and have only been able to listen occasionally. It’s time for me to get back and make it a regular pleasure! Perhaps, with a cup of tea or glass of wine!
Finish this sentence: I’d like to learn more about…
Anne Boleyn’s early life, although I know records are a bit sparse. What was her childhood like at Blickling Hall and Hever Castle?
Tell us about someone you admire.
I truly admire Ruth Bader Ginsberg, the Supreme Court Justice here in the U.S. who is in her 80’s, in poor health, but is determined to stay firm in her position. Her life has been dedicated to living her beliefs every day and her decisions have had a positive impact on so many people. She is a true inspiration.
(*Sadly, Ruth Bader Ginsberg passed away in September 2020)
What’s something you’re looking forward to in the next twelve months?
Like so many people, I’d like to hope we’ll have more of a sense of “normalcy” with regard to the Coronavirus. I’m looking forward to being able to do a bit more traveling!
Connect with me!
Instagram: @pdennehy1
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