The 20th Century
The Lydiard Estate was broken up in series of land sales beginning in 1920. By the outbreak of World War II the house had fallen into a sad state of disrepair, entirely lacking any modern amenities.
In 1941 Lydiard Park was requisitioned and an American Forces hospital established in the area of the present sports pitches. It served the 101st American Airborne Division and treated casualties from the D Day landings. Subsequently it became a German prisoner of war camp.
In 1943 the last remaining parts of the Lydiard Estate were sold. Swindon Corporation, led by their remarkable Town Clerk David Murray John, purchased the house and 147 acres of surrounding parkland. Murray John successfully spearheaded a campaign to restore the house, which opened to the public in 1955.