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The Penguin Guide to British Zoos; notes the mansions panelling throughout, the ceiling in the restaurant, and the fine fourteenth-century Italian mantelpiece in the hall.
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Timeline 1348 - The original mansion was built in 1348, probably as a country house named Chessington Lodge. 1642–1660 - During the Civil War the original building became a Cavalier stronghold, and was burnt to the ground by Cromwell’s forces. Rebuilt after the restoration, it was renamed ‘Burnt Stub’, and has continued to be so known. 1660 – 1700 -The site was used as a wayside alehouse during the late 17th century. 1700 – 1900 - It is presumed that the farmstead was rebuilt on a larger scale in the 18th or 19th century. 1900 - The estate came into the hands of the Vere Barker family at the beginning of the 20th century, but was again seriously damaged by fire. It was reconditioned in 1919 at a cost of £50,000. 1931- Animal enthusiast Reginald purchased the site and opened Chessington Zoo to allow the public to view his private animal collection. 
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After years of searching, I have recently managed to track down three architectural plans for the Burnt Stub mansion. These detailed drawings were created as part of R.S. Goddard's licence application in 1932. The first plan show the layout of the building at time of purchase from the Barker family, the second plans show the exterior North & East elevations and the third shows Reginald Goddard's plans for the building going forward.
Due to protected rights on the architectural drawings, I am unable to share full copies here on the site. Please drop me a message should you wish enquire about the drawings.
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Burnt Stub China
'Burnt Stub' china was used in the Zoo's restaurant and dining rooms, which were situated in the Burnt Stub Mansion. The china was produced for the Zoo by Royal Doulton / Ridgway Steelite and has the zoo's old trademark of a chimpanzee with the words 'Burnt Stub' either side of it, along with Chessington Zoo below. Also, below the chimp on some pieces are the words ' Devon Zoo & Circus, Paignton' as most of the Zoo was relocated to Paington during the 2nd World War. My china collection started back in 1998, when I was working at Chessington as a keeper and came across a small dish in a local second hand/antique shop. Since then I have continuously searched for additional items and now have a collection of over fifty pieces, along with various other related items from the Burnt Stub including an original restaurant menu card and various match books.
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This photograph was kindly sent to me by a member of the Goddard family... in the photograph; Reginald is pictured holding a large cup and saucers which was made by Royal Doulton and used in the Burnt Stub dining rooms. Right: Signature of R.S. Goddard I am always on the look out for additional pieces of "Burnt Stub" china and Chessington memorabilia to add to my personal collection. If you have any items that you would consider parting with please send me a message: lwbroome@yahoo.co.uk |