Loughborough-based specialist land development and property consultancy, Mather Jamie recently hosted David Johnson and his wife, Pam Johnson, who are the heirs to the remarkable Harpur Crewe Estate in Derby, as they embarked on their first visit to the UK from the USA since 2019 due to Covid restrictions.
Nestled in the picturesque village of Ticknall, the Harpur Crewe Estate is a testament to English history but also a story of international connections and dedication to preserving buildings and family heritage.
The Harpur Crewe family has held ownership over this estate since the 1500s, weaving their legacy into the very fabric of the community. However, the last surviving members of the Harpur Crewe family found themselves without heirs in the late 20th century.
The intricate unravelling of inheritance rights brought David and Pam Johnson, from Vermont, USA, into the spotlight as the last surviving heirs. In 1999, the Johnson family officially inherited the Harpur Crewe Estate, forming The Harpur Crewe LLC to manage and safeguard its future.
The Harpur Crewe LLC is a property and landowner of significant residential and industrial development sites, and a major contributor to the region’s economic growth and prosperity.
The Infinity Park and Infinity Garden Village projects bear the imprint of the Johnson family’s commitment to regional development. Infinity Park Derby is a unique collaboration between Derby City Council, the Harpur Crewe Estate, Rolls-Royce, and developers Cedar House, Wilson Bowden, and Peveril Securities.
The 100-acre Park is located to the south of the city, next to the world headquarters of Rolls-Royce Civil Aerospace and within 15 minutes of OEMs such as Toyota Manufacturing (UK), Bombardier, and JCB. Plots are available on a design-and-build basis and can be purposed for anything from office-use to industrial distribution.
Mather Jamie became involved with the Harpur Crewe Estate in 1999, during the probate valuations process following the passing of Miss Airmyne Harpur Crewe. Mather Jamie Director Amy Biddell has been overseeing its management since 2013 and hosted Pam and David during their visit. Amy is assisted by Amber Forster, Mark Brandon and Victoria Golbourn with the management of the Estate.
Commenting on the visit, Amy Biddell said: “The visit by David and Pam Johnson to the Harpur Crewe Estate serves as a reminder of the enduring connection between family, history, and heritage.
“Their commitment to preserving this historic estate for future generations, combined with their contributions to regional development, reinforces the importance of stewardship and the legacy of the Harpur Crewe family, now carried forward by the Johnsons.”
David Johnson added: “My family’s ancestors moved into Ticknall in 1622. Our family’s 400+ year history in that charming village and the surrounding area is the origin of my father’s ‘500-year vision’.
“For the estate to be successful for the next five centuries it is essential that our properties are kept in excellent condition, made as energy efficient as possible and equipped with the modern features that tenants are looking for.
“Amy and her team understand our vision and objectives and continue to successfully implement improvements, new ideas and strategies to enhance our portfolio and ensure that my father’s vision comes true.
“I absolutely enjoy every minute of our annual visits and I am thankful to Amy, Mark, Amber, Victoria and the entire Mather Jamie staff for their work on behalf of the Harpur Crewe Estate.”
The Harpur Crewe Estate also comprises 71 let residential properties, 2 holiday cottages, 3 farms, various gardens, and allotment land. Additionally, it includes an equestrian therapy centre, fishing rights, agricultural land, and the quaint yet intriguing “Lock up” goal in Ticknall.
