In an exclusive two-part feature, Patrick Coleman details the fascinating life of his Irish father – head butler at Chatsworth House for decades.
On the 29th June 1963, President John F. Kennedy (JFK) arrived in Derbyshire on what would be his last trip to England before the tragic events of November 22nd that year. After visiting the grave of his sister, Kathleen, in Edensor churchyard, he was driven the mile or so to Chatsworth House to visit Kathleen’s brother-in-law, the 11th Duke of Devonshire. Opening the front door for the President that day was a teenage footman, recently arrived from Ireland: Henry Coleman (who happens to be my father)…