A Letter from the Past: Annie Warrilow and Eagle House in 1878

Categories; History

May 14, 2025

Here at Eagle House Eccleshall, we are always thrilled when the past comes knocking on our door—and recently, it did just that, in the most heartwarming way. We were contacted by Judith Hunt, who has been researching her family history and generously shared a wonderful piece of Eagle House’s story: a letter written in 1878 by her husband’s ancestor, Annie Warrilow.

Annie was just 13 years old when she penned this letter to her grandmother, thanking her for paying for her education at Eagle House. At the time, our elegant Georgian building was a boarding school for girls, run by the dedicated and formidable Misses Tunnicliffe—figures we’ve written about in previous blog posts. Annie’s letter offers a glimpse into daily life at the school, and her gratitude and warmth come through with touching clarity.

Born in nearby Cheadle, Staffordshire, Annie went on to marry and return to rural life, working on her family’s dairy farm in Shifnal, Shropshire. She raised several children after leaving Eagle House.

We’re delighted to share a copy of Annie’s original letter in this post, as well as a photograph of her and her family taken when she was 43 years old. These pieces of personal history enrich our understanding of Eagle House and the many lives it has touched.

Annie Warrilow Eagle House Eccleshall in Staffordshire — Annie (right centre), age 43, and her family

A House Full of Stories

Eagle House has seen many chapters since it was built in the 1810. Originally serving as the town’s Poor House, it was later transformed into a respected girls’ boarding school—an institution that left a deep mark on those who passed through its doors, like young Annie. Today, the building has been beautifully restored and reimagined as an award-winning Bed and Breakfast and Self-Catering Apartment.

We offer three elegant, individually designed guest rooms, each with its own charm, as well as a stylish and comfortable Eagle’s Nest apartment. Whether you’re here for a countryside escape, a romantic weekend, or a historical pilgrimage, Eagle House offers a truly unique and memorable stay.

With its high ceilings, original features, and a warm welcome, it’s easy to imagine the many footsteps that have echoed through these halls over the centuries. And we love nothing more than uncovering those stories.

Share Your Eagle House Connection

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Judith Hunt for reaching out and sharing Annie’s story with us. Letters like this help bring Eagle House’s past to life, and we are always eager to learn more.

If you or someone in your family has a connection to Eagle House we would be delighted to hear from you. Every memory, photo, or document adds to the rich tapestry of this wonderful building’s history.

Do get in touch with us if you have any stories to share. And, of course, if you’d like to experience the charm of Eagle House for yourself, we’d love to welcome you to stay.

With history in every corner and comfort at every turn, Eagle House Eccleshall is truly a place where the past and present come together beautifully.