An online Beatles fan club for and about Beatle fans
Showing posts with label Kinfauns. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kinfauns. Show all posts
Thursday, January 9, 2020
Sunday, May 5, 2019
Thursday, April 11, 2019
Thursday, April 4, 2019
Wednesday, February 27, 2019
Ob-la-di, ob-la-dan! : A book Review
Ob-la-di, Ob-la-Dan! is the story of 18-year-old Dan Lacksman who in 1968 left his home in Belgium and traveled to London with one goal in mind: to meet the Beatles!
Once he arrives in London, he overhears a girl talking about how she had just seen The Beatles outside of EMI. He starts talking to her to get the scoop and then is standing outside Cavendish and EMI himself. The Beatles were in the middle of making the White Album and so they were coming and going and lucky Dan got to meet and photograph each Beatle.
At some point, he traveled to Kinfauns and met George and Pattie at their home and photograph them there as well.
 |
| photo by Dan Lacksman |
The book is full of photos that Dan took of the Beatles, many have never been seen before. Unfortunately, Dan did not include the exact dates of any of the photos.
The book itself is written in French. If you are someone that can read French, then this isn't an issue for you. But for me, who only has basic French knowledge, I was unable to read the book. I gathered the main parts of the story from the little that was in English and the few words I knew, but I am sure there are some good stories in there. Maybe someday someone will translate the book. However, this small book is worth the price just for the candid photos that you won't find anywhere else.
https://www.nostalgie.be/shop/article/view/72
Sunday, February 24, 2019
Happy Birthday George! (Day 1)
Since no one can seem to agree if George's birthday is February 24 or February 25, I am going to do the best thing: celebrate George's birthday on both days!
These Henry Grossman photos were taken on George's birthday party held at his house, Kinfauns on February 25, 1967.
These Henry Grossman photos were taken on George's birthday party held at his house, Kinfauns on February 25, 1967.
Thursday, February 21, 2019
Wonderwall in memory of Peter Tork
I have never made it a secret that I have always disliked the Monkees. Sure, I think some of their songs are good, but overall, I just don't care for the Monkees. In the days when I was very immature, I used to call Monkee Peter -- Peter Dork.
In spite of my feelings towards the Monkees, I am so sorry to hear of the death of Peter Tork today. As I am dealing with my own grief right now, I am overwhelmed hearing of someone else's' death and my heart aches for Peter's family, friends, and fans because I know exactly how they are feeling right now.
In hearing of Peter's death, I am reminded that Peter played on the Wonderwall album with George in the autumn of 1967. Here is what Peter had to say about that meeting with the "quiet" Beatle
I’d met George when he was visiting Cass Elliot in Los Angeles, and I was dating Cass’s sister, Leah,” Peter Tork says. “Later, the Monkees met the Beatles in England, and he invited me to his house. He played the sitar and said: ‘I’m working on a soundtrack album, I’d love to have you play a little banjo.’” Tork had travelled without his instrument, so Harrison borrowed McCartney’s five-string banjo for the session – “which Paul couldn’t play – at least conventionally, because the folk five-string banjo can’t be restrung in reverse order for left-handers, it must be custom made. I played for 45 minutes, George said, ‘Thanks very much,’ and we went our separate ways.”
Tork’s breezy contribution didn’t make the record, but it can be heard 15 minutes into the film, after Collins is chided by his mother for spying through the wall. “And I did not get paid,” he laughs. “George said: ‘We’ll figure that out later.’ He knew that the honour itself was payment enough!”
Thursday, January 10, 2019
MTBFR 10 year flashback: The Best Day of my life (repost)
2019 marks the 10th anniversary of Meet the Beatles...for Real. I have some special things planned to mark the big day. For the next 10 Thursdays, I am going to dip into the files and post some of my favorite Beatles stories that haven't gotten very much attention over the years and I think need to be looked at again.
The first one was originally posted on August 9, 2009. It is the story of Pattie Emerson meeting George at Kinfauns. It was found in a 1969 issue of Datebook magazine.
The Best Day of my Life
By Pattie Emerson, 14, McKinley Junior H.S.
Flint, Michigan
Monday, July 31, 1967, was the best day of my life. That day I met George Harrison. Wendy, Betty and I planned this excursion to Esher for quite awhile. All of the Beatles were supposed to be Athens. You should have
seen us when we read that George and Pattie had landed in London the day before!
We arrived at George’s house at about 10:30, took pictures and movies, and bashfully went to the front door. Betts and Wendy saw someone walk by inside. I was too busy taking movies through the mail slot. I
knocked almost inaudibly on the door and Pattie answered. We asked about George and how her vacation in Greece was. She had just gotten up and wasn’t dressed, and kept hiding behind the door. She said we should come back in the afternoon when George would be there. We asked if he would mind and she said, “oh no!” She was very nice.
We then went to John’s where we had to stare down with the gardener. We were taking pictures and movies while he was inside asking permission for us. He said John was to be away three weeks so I left my book of poetry with him along with a hurried note to John. (John was home that night. Someone there told us a lie!).
We then left John’s for Ringo’s. When we started to walk towards the backyard via the flowery wall, a woman knocked from an upstairs window, motioning for us to leave. So we did.
We ate lunch at the Bear Inn in Esher (where I had trouble eating knowing we would meet George that afternoon).
We arrived back at George’s a little before 3:30 and stood at the door, waiting for something. We saw George walk past the window, heard him cough and the telephone ring. Then we heard the clock strike half-past. Reading the sign, “doorbell push”, I did and out popped George. I wasn’t scared, but I said, “Do you want to make me cry?” for lack of something intelligent to say. And George replied thoughtfully and seriously, “I don’t want to make you do anything.” That did it. I no longer thought of him as George Harrison, famous person, but as a friend, which he is. He talked to us for over three-quarters of an hour about religion, love, life, music – everything. He said he enjoyed talking with us and he wished he could spend some time with everyone in the
world.
I gave him some beads and the Sgt. Pepper handshake – well never mind. I took movies of George doing the Charleston with my beads.
I’ve never met a man so intelligent and understanding. He seemed to have the answer for everything. He was very funny too. He laughed when I told him I was taking TWA home the next day. I found out the next day he left London for the States at the same time on Pan Am. He recommended a book for me to read, The Autobiography of a Yogi, which if you find it (which isn’t likely) please sent it to me.
George’s front door is a riot! So is the whole house! There are little clippings painted on like “do you want to play like the pro’s?” and “those who enter must beware” and “Front Door”. His living room is what
I’d call Indian Modern. It’s pretty anyway! There was a big white teddy bear on the sofa and beautiful things all over the place. Another surprise was the laundry hanging on the line. I guess they don’t’ have a dryer.
I can’t explain how nice George was. He just talked to us like old friends. He made me realize so much about the world. I’ll never forget him or what he’s done for me. I love him like he loves me and everyone else in the world. He really does. This isn’t just something he says. He believes it, and talking with him made me realize
this.
When we left he said, “Be seein’ ya!” and he meant it. He will. Maybe next year, I hope because I just have to visit this wonderful man again.
The first one was originally posted on August 9, 2009. It is the story of Pattie Emerson meeting George at Kinfauns. It was found in a 1969 issue of Datebook magazine.
The Best Day of my Life
By Pattie Emerson, 14, McKinley Junior H.S.
Flint, Michigan
Monday, July 31, 1967, was the best day of my life. That day I met George Harrison. Wendy, Betty and I planned this excursion to Esher for quite awhile. All of the Beatles were supposed to be Athens. You should have
seen us when we read that George and Pattie had landed in London the day before!
We arrived at George’s house at about 10:30, took pictures and movies, and bashfully went to the front door. Betts and Wendy saw someone walk by inside. I was too busy taking movies through the mail slot. I
knocked almost inaudibly on the door and Pattie answered. We asked about George and how her vacation in Greece was. She had just gotten up and wasn’t dressed, and kept hiding behind the door. She said we should come back in the afternoon when George would be there. We asked if he would mind and she said, “oh no!” She was very nice.
We then went to John’s where we had to stare down with the gardener. We were taking pictures and movies while he was inside asking permission for us. He said John was to be away three weeks so I left my book of poetry with him along with a hurried note to John. (John was home that night. Someone there told us a lie!).
We then left John’s for Ringo’s. When we started to walk towards the backyard via the flowery wall, a woman knocked from an upstairs window, motioning for us to leave. So we did.
We ate lunch at the Bear Inn in Esher (where I had trouble eating knowing we would meet George that afternoon).
We arrived back at George’s a little before 3:30 and stood at the door, waiting for something. We saw George walk past the window, heard him cough and the telephone ring. Then we heard the clock strike half-past. Reading the sign, “doorbell push”, I did and out popped George. I wasn’t scared, but I said, “Do you want to make me cry?” for lack of something intelligent to say. And George replied thoughtfully and seriously, “I don’t want to make you do anything.” That did it. I no longer thought of him as George Harrison, famous person, but as a friend, which he is. He talked to us for over three-quarters of an hour about religion, love, life, music – everything. He said he enjoyed talking with us and he wished he could spend some time with everyone in the
world.
I gave him some beads and the Sgt. Pepper handshake – well never mind. I took movies of George doing the Charleston with my beads.
I’ve never met a man so intelligent and understanding. He seemed to have the answer for everything. He was very funny too. He laughed when I told him I was taking TWA home the next day. I found out the next day he left London for the States at the same time on Pan Am. He recommended a book for me to read, The Autobiography of a Yogi, which if you find it (which isn’t likely) please sent it to me.
George’s front door is a riot! So is the whole house! There are little clippings painted on like “do you want to play like the pro’s?” and “those who enter must beware” and “Front Door”. His living room is what
I’d call Indian Modern. It’s pretty anyway! There was a big white teddy bear on the sofa and beautiful things all over the place. Another surprise was the laundry hanging on the line. I guess they don’t’ have a dryer.
I can’t explain how nice George was. He just talked to us like old friends. He made me realize so much about the world. I’ll never forget him or what he’s done for me. I love him like he loves me and everyone else in the world. He really does. This isn’t just something he says. He believes it, and talking with him made me realize
this.
When we left he said, “Be seein’ ya!” and he meant it. He will. Maybe next year, I hope because I just have to visit this wonderful man again.
Sunday, December 16, 2018
Thia's Story
Thia Cash's stories have been shared here before, but I just find them fascinating. In November 1970 she shared her story with the "Beatles Rule!" fan club newsletter. This is the most of her story that I have ever seen before.
There are 90,000 Americans residents in England, including 18,000 in London. socially London can be extraordinarily accessible even though an intensely private place. It is a city which exists behind closed doors, the entire system revolving around friends. Introductions are terribly important. There are four Liverpudlians living, working, loving and making beautiful music in London. Their names are John, Paul, George, and Richard (Ringo). This was the London of 1967 which I flew off towards on Independence Day (July the 4th) of that year. At the time I knew not a single Beatle fan, and I definitely did not know a single person in the whole of England. I was completely alone!
Why does a man have two ears and one mouth? So that he can listen twice as much as he talks. I think that I must have been given a very special blessing having chosen that particular time to go and see them. Everything just fell into my lap so to speak, and all The Beatles and their families were in very congenial states of mind. I'm afraid it would take me much too long to write all the things that happened during those three months I was there, but I can say that Sgt. Pepper Summer and Fall was the happiest and most memorable time of my life, and in a way, it was the high sign and a turning point in the Beatles legend.
Most of the following is fact, some is only my own personal opinion. I also at times will relate quotes, but generally will refrain from this as it has been over three years since this happened to me, and so much was said that I don't want to state anything I am not precisely sure of. Unfortunately, I did not have a tape recorder and even if I had I would not have used it as most of what was said was private and not in interview style. Luckily I did have a camera and came back home with some surprisingly unusual photographs.
I arrived in London at Heathrow Airport on an early sunny morning in July, and went by bus and then taxi to the YMCA near Great Russell Square where I was to spend only a week until I could acquire my own bedsitter. It was there I met several really super people from Scotland and Ireland, whom I went about with for the first two weeks. I was able to take in most of the London sights with them during the day, and in the evenings we doubled up for the nightlife. I fell in love with London but had begun to feel that I would never really even come across The Beatles. Maybe they were only a dream, and maybe it was true what they had said about me at home -- that I was indeed quite mad!
On the 14th day of my stay (I was now living near Baker Street on Nottingham Place), my friends left to go home and Iw as again alone. It was terrible really. I had not the foggiest notion as to where any of the Beatles lived, except that Paul was up in a place called St. Johns Wood, which on the map looked like a gigantic place to have to comb through. I did not even know what street he was on, though I knew I must have read the name and remembered it subconsciously.
During my three months (July, August, and September), John, Cyn, and Julian were together at Kenwood. Little things John did and said when he was with Cyn (and I wasn't the only one to notice this) made me feel that something and was the matter between them. Later when they separated, I was very sad at first, because I had like Cynthia very much, she was a very kind, shy, patient person. with Yoko he has however seemed to have the freedom and outlet he needed before I think he was very restrained. I don't know what the future holds but now that Cyn and Roberto have married. I do hope that all continues to go well between John and Yoko.
The first time I ever met John was that day in Kenwood. Three hours before the whole lot of them were due to leave for Athens, Greece. I have to admit thinking back, that John was the only one I was really scared of, and it was ridiculous because sometimes I think (even though he is not the one I have the deepest feelings for), that he's the biggest softy of the four. Certainly, he's the most gullible believe it or not. Some newspaper people I know, just would not believe that John is quite naive about a lot of things. He'll always be that way too. An example is the "Two Virgins" cover. He honestly didn't believe or realize that it could cause such a stupid mess of newsprint.
John at the time was barefoot, wearing bright purple trousers, and a black and white t-shirt decorated with necklaces. He was sitting quite comfortably in a lazy lotus position, hugging a pillow in his favorite chair. His hair was a bit short and fluffy with long sideburns and of course, he was wearing his famous gold-rimmed glasses. He was a bit stern looking and quiet as he watched the going on. I remember being very proud of myself when I made him smile like a little kid when I told him he was "beautiful." He had a fake tattoo flower bracelet around his wrist and a flower on the top of his foot. I have a feeling one of "The Fool" had painted in on for him. Two of them were there then; Seemone and Marijka (Dutch husband and wife team). They were and still are fantastic fools. Someone is the "Rainbow Man."
George and Ritchie were both there too, and Julian (running about in his underwear and tagging after his Dad). Cynthia had gone over to Maureen's for a bit to keep her company (It was only a month or so before Jason was to be born). I 'll tell you about the others in detail later, as I'll try to take on Beatle at a time for discussion.
George Harrison -- now there's a great name for a beautiful person. The first time we were introduced, he jumped over a table in one leaping bond to shake my hand. He also grinned quite broadly showing his fantastic smile. Either his parents taught him well in manners (as he was extremely polite and friendly) or he'd been smoking a little of John's special brand of cigarettes. I think at the time it was a mixture of both.
George is a very sincere, dedicated person. 1967 was far from the beginning of his interest in India and religion. He'd been studying for quite some time, even in school. I remember Judy and I giving him some books of Ravi Shankar and he just could not put them down. The greatest discussion I ever had was with him and Pattie at Kinfaun Wall Bungalow in Esher the day after they returned from San Francisco, California.
Ringo's chauffeur had offered to drive us from Sunny Heights to Kinfauns. I was with my two French friends. One being Josette Barnato, an 18-year-old Parisian who looked extraordinarily like a Boyd girl. Both George and Pattie took a special liking to her. The chauffer frequently drove all the Beatles and their families. He definitely liked Paul the best. He spoke of him as being very polite. He was upset that Ringo had not spoken to him at all during the drive back. He had been to an interview about Maureen expecting the baby and I imagine he was thinking on it.
As the driver left, we walked down the long gravel drive towards the gate. It all seemed very strange and I was not at all prepared for what was going to happen. I just pray that everyone can experience just once in their lives the sudden dreamlike peace and serenity I experienced. It was almost Holy!
Pattie' orange mini-cooper was in the drive, plastered on it were the yellow and black signs advertising "Monterey Pop Festival." Flowers were abundant and roses covered the little arbor leading to the door. On the line at the side near the greenhouse were five pairs of George's jockey shorts!
I went up to the door to ring the bell as the others wouldn't. It really didn't help to see a printed note near the bell warning of certain death to the one who pressed it. I was written in a type of prose. Also, there were signs with baby's photo on it saying "Safe as Milk." I knocked first. There was no answer, but the television was on. Finally, I rang...still nothing. We looked around, snapping pictures and then went back to the gate, determined to wait. Jennie and Paula Boyd pulled up in the driveway. Jennie smiled at us and waved saying, "you can try the door again now." For some reason, we decided just to wait at the gate. The weather was getting cloudy and we had been there about an hour. We were just about to leave when all of a sudden we saw a lean long-haired figure come from around the back of the house. It was dressed in a screamingly wild combo of colors with rectangle designed trousers and bare feet. The figure casually walked across the grass pretending to be inspecting his Cyprus trees near the wall. "My God," I said to Josette, and I'm certain my eyes must have widened to twice their size. "It's George!" Josette wheeled around in extasy, spreading out her arms wide for him. "France, France, I am from France. I am a French girl!" George grinned that grin of his and kept walking toward her, then stopped about six feet away hands on hips and said, "And I am a British boy." "But you are GEORGE HARRISON!" Everyone including George had a laugh. From then on it was easy talking to him.
He told us all about his and Pattie's trip to San Francisco. He really loved California and was surprised but impressed when I told him I was born there. He was wearing the all seeing eye around his neck and I couldn't help but stare at it. This got us into a discussion on India and religion. Before that, however, I remember commenting on the great wall and asking him if it was true that Clive of India built it. "I'm sure he had some help from his friends," George replied, and I know I turned pink, but he laughed.
After speaking about California, Josette asked him why he did not go to Paris more often. He said they all tried to get around to different places, but it took up so much time. He wanted to go through, and a few months later, he and Pattie, John and Cynthia showed up in Paris to visit Ravi. Pattie and George were very pleased to find Josette there as well.
Josette wanted to know if he spoke any French. "Just a little," he replied. "Say something," she dared him. "Say something..." he repeated thinking, "Well..." and he went off into a French sentence, like a little boy reciting his lessons for a teacher. Josette nodded when he finished and everyone giggled. I asked him what he had said and he really laughed. "Can I have some milk this morning. That is really all I know."
When we were talking about meditation, which he could talk forever on, I asked him, as someone who is greatly interested in that type of philosophy, what books he would recommend me to read as a beginner. The first thing that came to his head was "Autobiography of a Yogi" and I shall forever be indebted to him for recommending this to me as it completely changed my life, and since that time I have thought of George only in the most appreciative way.
We all were dying to meet Pattie, and Josette asked him outright, "Could we see Pattie Boyd?" At the time her English translations and accent were delightfully full of mistakes. "Pattie Boyd...Pattie Boyd..Pattie BOYD." George raised his eyebrow and smiled repeating Pattie's maiden name. "Well, we'll see if Pattie BOYD will come out. Just a minute." He left us and went into the house. After about three or four minutes he returned grinning, and behind him, about four feet was Pattie with long flowering blonde hair and a bright orange dress (a mini) with a gold buckle and also bare feet. She signed autographs smiling all the while. She was so very nice and shy as well. We told her we had seen one of her commercials recently for "Dop" shampoo, where she was washing her hair under a car-wash. Her orange mini was also featured. She seemed very pleased, and when we asked her where she had gotten her dress she said, 'India."
All in all, we had talked to Geroge alone for about 20 minutes, and I forgot time after Pattie and he were there together. It all seemed too beautiful and happy to leave. I could kick myself for not having enough film to at least have snapped them together. I told George this and said kiddingly, "You wouldn't happen to have any film around?" "Just 35mm," he replied and looked sorry. "Well, that'll do if I can have the camera that goes with it." He laughed. He was also laughing then. I just hope he'll always be happy (he and Pattie) as when I saw them that day. My love to them both.
There are 90,000 Americans residents in England, including 18,000 in London. socially London can be extraordinarily accessible even though an intensely private place. It is a city which exists behind closed doors, the entire system revolving around friends. Introductions are terribly important. There are four Liverpudlians living, working, loving and making beautiful music in London. Their names are John, Paul, George, and Richard (Ringo). This was the London of 1967 which I flew off towards on Independence Day (July the 4th) of that year. At the time I knew not a single Beatle fan, and I definitely did not know a single person in the whole of England. I was completely alone!
"For yesterday is but a dream, and tomorrow is only a vision. But today well-lived makes every yesterday a dream of happiness, and every tomorrow a vision of hope. Look well, therefore, to this day. Such is the salutation of the dawn."
Why does a man have two ears and one mouth? So that he can listen twice as much as he talks. I think that I must have been given a very special blessing having chosen that particular time to go and see them. Everything just fell into my lap so to speak, and all The Beatles and their families were in very congenial states of mind. I'm afraid it would take me much too long to write all the things that happened during those three months I was there, but I can say that Sgt. Pepper Summer and Fall was the happiest and most memorable time of my life, and in a way, it was the high sign and a turning point in the Beatles legend.
Most of the following is fact, some is only my own personal opinion. I also at times will relate quotes, but generally will refrain from this as it has been over three years since this happened to me, and so much was said that I don't want to state anything I am not precisely sure of. Unfortunately, I did not have a tape recorder and even if I had I would not have used it as most of what was said was private and not in interview style. Luckily I did have a camera and came back home with some surprisingly unusual photographs.
I arrived in London at Heathrow Airport on an early sunny morning in July, and went by bus and then taxi to the YMCA near Great Russell Square where I was to spend only a week until I could acquire my own bedsitter. It was there I met several really super people from Scotland and Ireland, whom I went about with for the first two weeks. I was able to take in most of the London sights with them during the day, and in the evenings we doubled up for the nightlife. I fell in love with London but had begun to feel that I would never really even come across The Beatles. Maybe they were only a dream, and maybe it was true what they had said about me at home -- that I was indeed quite mad!
On the 14th day of my stay (I was now living near Baker Street on Nottingham Place), my friends left to go home and Iw as again alone. It was terrible really. I had not the foggiest notion as to where any of the Beatles lived, except that Paul was up in a place called St. Johns Wood, which on the map looked like a gigantic place to have to comb through. I did not even know what street he was on, though I knew I must have read the name and remembered it subconsciously.
During my three months (July, August, and September), John, Cyn, and Julian were together at Kenwood. Little things John did and said when he was with Cyn (and I wasn't the only one to notice this) made me feel that something and was the matter between them. Later when they separated, I was very sad at first, because I had like Cynthia very much, she was a very kind, shy, patient person. with Yoko he has however seemed to have the freedom and outlet he needed before I think he was very restrained. I don't know what the future holds but now that Cyn and Roberto have married. I do hope that all continues to go well between John and Yoko.
The first time I ever met John was that day in Kenwood. Three hours before the whole lot of them were due to leave for Athens, Greece. I have to admit thinking back, that John was the only one I was really scared of, and it was ridiculous because sometimes I think (even though he is not the one I have the deepest feelings for), that he's the biggest softy of the four. Certainly, he's the most gullible believe it or not. Some newspaper people I know, just would not believe that John is quite naive about a lot of things. He'll always be that way too. An example is the "Two Virgins" cover. He honestly didn't believe or realize that it could cause such a stupid mess of newsprint.
John at the time was barefoot, wearing bright purple trousers, and a black and white t-shirt decorated with necklaces. He was sitting quite comfortably in a lazy lotus position, hugging a pillow in his favorite chair. His hair was a bit short and fluffy with long sideburns and of course, he was wearing his famous gold-rimmed glasses. He was a bit stern looking and quiet as he watched the going on. I remember being very proud of myself when I made him smile like a little kid when I told him he was "beautiful." He had a fake tattoo flower bracelet around his wrist and a flower on the top of his foot. I have a feeling one of "The Fool" had painted in on for him. Two of them were there then; Seemone and Marijka (Dutch husband and wife team). They were and still are fantastic fools. Someone is the "Rainbow Man."
George and Ritchie were both there too, and Julian (running about in his underwear and tagging after his Dad). Cynthia had gone over to Maureen's for a bit to keep her company (It was only a month or so before Jason was to be born). I 'll tell you about the others in detail later, as I'll try to take on Beatle at a time for discussion.
 |
| George and Thia at Kenwood |
George Harrison -- now there's a great name for a beautiful person. The first time we were introduced, he jumped over a table in one leaping bond to shake my hand. He also grinned quite broadly showing his fantastic smile. Either his parents taught him well in manners (as he was extremely polite and friendly) or he'd been smoking a little of John's special brand of cigarettes. I think at the time it was a mixture of both.
George is a very sincere, dedicated person. 1967 was far from the beginning of his interest in India and religion. He'd been studying for quite some time, even in school. I remember Judy and I giving him some books of Ravi Shankar and he just could not put them down. The greatest discussion I ever had was with him and Pattie at Kinfaun Wall Bungalow in Esher the day after they returned from San Francisco, California.
Ringo's chauffeur had offered to drive us from Sunny Heights to Kinfauns. I was with my two French friends. One being Josette Barnato, an 18-year-old Parisian who looked extraordinarily like a Boyd girl. Both George and Pattie took a special liking to her. The chauffer frequently drove all the Beatles and their families. He definitely liked Paul the best. He spoke of him as being very polite. He was upset that Ringo had not spoken to him at all during the drive back. He had been to an interview about Maureen expecting the baby and I imagine he was thinking on it.
As the driver left, we walked down the long gravel drive towards the gate. It all seemed very strange and I was not at all prepared for what was going to happen. I just pray that everyone can experience just once in their lives the sudden dreamlike peace and serenity I experienced. It was almost Holy!
Pattie' orange mini-cooper was in the drive, plastered on it were the yellow and black signs advertising "Monterey Pop Festival." Flowers were abundant and roses covered the little arbor leading to the door. On the line at the side near the greenhouse were five pairs of George's jockey shorts!
 |
| This is my guess of what photo goes with this story. Colorful shirt, rectangles on pants, necklace, talking to him in the yard and with a girl that looks like a Boyd sister. All matches! |
I went up to the door to ring the bell as the others wouldn't. It really didn't help to see a printed note near the bell warning of certain death to the one who pressed it. I was written in a type of prose. Also, there were signs with baby's photo on it saying "Safe as Milk." I knocked first. There was no answer, but the television was on. Finally, I rang...still nothing. We looked around, snapping pictures and then went back to the gate, determined to wait. Jennie and Paula Boyd pulled up in the driveway. Jennie smiled at us and waved saying, "you can try the door again now." For some reason, we decided just to wait at the gate. The weather was getting cloudy and we had been there about an hour. We were just about to leave when all of a sudden we saw a lean long-haired figure come from around the back of the house. It was dressed in a screamingly wild combo of colors with rectangle designed trousers and bare feet. The figure casually walked across the grass pretending to be inspecting his Cyprus trees near the wall. "My God," I said to Josette, and I'm certain my eyes must have widened to twice their size. "It's George!" Josette wheeled around in extasy, spreading out her arms wide for him. "France, France, I am from France. I am a French girl!" George grinned that grin of his and kept walking toward her, then stopped about six feet away hands on hips and said, "And I am a British boy." "But you are GEORGE HARRISON!" Everyone including George had a laugh. From then on it was easy talking to him.
He told us all about his and Pattie's trip to San Francisco. He really loved California and was surprised but impressed when I told him I was born there. He was wearing the all seeing eye around his neck and I couldn't help but stare at it. This got us into a discussion on India and religion. Before that, however, I remember commenting on the great wall and asking him if it was true that Clive of India built it. "I'm sure he had some help from his friends," George replied, and I know I turned pink, but he laughed.
After speaking about California, Josette asked him why he did not go to Paris more often. He said they all tried to get around to different places, but it took up so much time. He wanted to go through, and a few months later, he and Pattie, John and Cynthia showed up in Paris to visit Ravi. Pattie and George were very pleased to find Josette there as well.
Josette wanted to know if he spoke any French. "Just a little," he replied. "Say something," she dared him. "Say something..." he repeated thinking, "Well..." and he went off into a French sentence, like a little boy reciting his lessons for a teacher. Josette nodded when he finished and everyone giggled. I asked him what he had said and he really laughed. "Can I have some milk this morning. That is really all I know."
When we were talking about meditation, which he could talk forever on, I asked him, as someone who is greatly interested in that type of philosophy, what books he would recommend me to read as a beginner. The first thing that came to his head was "Autobiography of a Yogi" and I shall forever be indebted to him for recommending this to me as it completely changed my life, and since that time I have thought of George only in the most appreciative way.
We all were dying to meet Pattie, and Josette asked him outright, "Could we see Pattie Boyd?" At the time her English translations and accent were delightfully full of mistakes. "Pattie Boyd...Pattie Boyd..Pattie BOYD." George raised his eyebrow and smiled repeating Pattie's maiden name. "Well, we'll see if Pattie BOYD will come out. Just a minute." He left us and went into the house. After about three or four minutes he returned grinning, and behind him, about four feet was Pattie with long flowering blonde hair and a bright orange dress (a mini) with a gold buckle and also bare feet. She signed autographs smiling all the while. She was so very nice and shy as well. We told her we had seen one of her commercials recently for "Dop" shampoo, where she was washing her hair under a car-wash. Her orange mini was also featured. She seemed very pleased, and when we asked her where she had gotten her dress she said, 'India."
All in all, we had talked to Geroge alone for about 20 minutes, and I forgot time after Pattie and he were there together. It all seemed too beautiful and happy to leave. I could kick myself for not having enough film to at least have snapped them together. I told George this and said kiddingly, "You wouldn't happen to have any film around?" "Just 35mm," he replied and looked sorry. "Well, that'll do if I can have the camera that goes with it." He laughed. He was also laughing then. I just hope he'll always be happy (he and Pattie) as when I saw them that day. My love to them both.
Thursday, December 13, 2018
Report From London (1968)
Tonight's story comes from the September 1968 issue of "Father Lennon's Many Children" fan club newsletter. This newsletter was renamed "Beatles Rule!" not long after this issue.
Report from London
By Sher Miller
I'm writing this column in my hotel room in London. It's been one of the most hectic and exciting weeks I've ever spent! This is my tenth day here and so much has happened. Last Sunday, my second day in London, I went to Paul's house with two friends. We stood around for about two hours then suddenly a familiar face appeared at the gate. Mr. McCartney M.B.E. was in a very groovy mood that day. He came out and chatted with us for about 20 minutes. I gave him some American Indian peace beads. He was holding his adorable little Yorkshire puppy named Eddie. there were about 20 girls around so it wasn't a very personal meeting, but it was the first time I had ever been so close to Paul and actually talked to him. For the next few days, I saw him frequently, but it was usually when he was in his car.
Just yesterday I had the most beautiful day of my life. I met George and it was in the right way too, not with 20 other people there. It was four of us and George and that's pretty groovy. We went to his house at about 3p this past Sunday, September 1st. His home is unbelievable. I have pictures of everything because it was a day that has to be remembered. My friend Margaret rang his bell and Pattie answered. I caught my breath for a second because a picture had suddenly come alive to me. Margaret asked if we could see George. Pattie said, "Just a minute." I looked down to put my film cartridge in when George appeared at the door. We all said, "Hi" (George quite shyly and us quite nervously). From then on everything was beautiful. George is the easiest person in the world to talk to. After we were talking for a while George asked me if I was on holiday. I said yes, and he asked me if I was having a good time. He's so darn nice. He really took an interest in us. At one point we all took a picture with him and as I posed with him and he chatted about the inconsistent weather. Did you ever picture in your wildest dreams that a Beatles would talk casually about the weather, or as George did, start raving about an unusual umbrella? My see-through umbrella caught his eye and hew as so excited about it that he called Pattie over to see it! We were all so taken with George.
Earlier in the day, we met Julian Lennon. We had gone to John's house thinking he might be there. the gate was open and there were two cars in the garage. Margaret ran the bell and a woman answered. With her was a little boy. As he stepped forward, we all stared. Then Marg said, "Is that Julian?" The woman said it was. Fellow Beatles people, he is the most gorgeous little boy I've ever seen. He's got a long fringe with big brown eyes. He's tallish and slim and he wore a striped polo shirt with little red trunks. We got a picture of him and my friend gave him a chocolate bar. Just like all children, he had to be prompted to say "thank you." As we left, we heard him yell, "Mommy!" Obviously, John gave the home to Cyn instead of selling it.
Next stop was Ringo's. If you have the impression that Ringo's house is "just down the hill" from John's, forget it! It's a very long way down and around. A woman with a baby opened the door. It was Maureen's mother and Jason. Jason Starkey is now one year old. We hadn't seen him since he was born. He's lovely, blonde and blue eyes, he looks much like Zak.
Paul was in Morocco until Tuesday getting a tan we were told by his housekeeper, Rosie.
We got tickets to Top of the Pops show tomorrow night starring -- The Beatles! Mal gave them to us as a gift from Apple.
By the way, Neil got married on Friday! Well, I'm already planning a trip for next year! Cheerio!
 |
| Photo just for reference. |
Report from London
By Sher Miller
I'm writing this column in my hotel room in London. It's been one of the most hectic and exciting weeks I've ever spent! This is my tenth day here and so much has happened. Last Sunday, my second day in London, I went to Paul's house with two friends. We stood around for about two hours then suddenly a familiar face appeared at the gate. Mr. McCartney M.B.E. was in a very groovy mood that day. He came out and chatted with us for about 20 minutes. I gave him some American Indian peace beads. He was holding his adorable little Yorkshire puppy named Eddie. there were about 20 girls around so it wasn't a very personal meeting, but it was the first time I had ever been so close to Paul and actually talked to him. For the next few days, I saw him frequently, but it was usually when he was in his car.
Just yesterday I had the most beautiful day of my life. I met George and it was in the right way too, not with 20 other people there. It was four of us and George and that's pretty groovy. We went to his house at about 3p this past Sunday, September 1st. His home is unbelievable. I have pictures of everything because it was a day that has to be remembered. My friend Margaret rang his bell and Pattie answered. I caught my breath for a second because a picture had suddenly come alive to me. Margaret asked if we could see George. Pattie said, "Just a minute." I looked down to put my film cartridge in when George appeared at the door. We all said, "Hi" (George quite shyly and us quite nervously). From then on everything was beautiful. George is the easiest person in the world to talk to. After we were talking for a while George asked me if I was on holiday. I said yes, and he asked me if I was having a good time. He's so darn nice. He really took an interest in us. At one point we all took a picture with him and as I posed with him and he chatted about the inconsistent weather. Did you ever picture in your wildest dreams that a Beatles would talk casually about the weather, or as George did, start raving about an unusual umbrella? My see-through umbrella caught his eye and hew as so excited about it that he called Pattie over to see it! We were all so taken with George.
Earlier in the day, we met Julian Lennon. We had gone to John's house thinking he might be there. the gate was open and there were two cars in the garage. Margaret ran the bell and a woman answered. With her was a little boy. As he stepped forward, we all stared. Then Marg said, "Is that Julian?" The woman said it was. Fellow Beatles people, he is the most gorgeous little boy I've ever seen. He's got a long fringe with big brown eyes. He's tallish and slim and he wore a striped polo shirt with little red trunks. We got a picture of him and my friend gave him a chocolate bar. Just like all children, he had to be prompted to say "thank you." As we left, we heard him yell, "Mommy!" Obviously, John gave the home to Cyn instead of selling it.
Next stop was Ringo's. If you have the impression that Ringo's house is "just down the hill" from John's, forget it! It's a very long way down and around. A woman with a baby opened the door. It was Maureen's mother and Jason. Jason Starkey is now one year old. We hadn't seen him since he was born. He's lovely, blonde and blue eyes, he looks much like Zak.
Paul was in Morocco until Tuesday getting a tan we were told by his housekeeper, Rosie.
We got tickets to Top of the Pops show tomorrow night starring -- The Beatles! Mal gave them to us as a gift from Apple.
By the way, Neil got married on Friday! Well, I'm already planning a trip for next year! Cheerio!
Monday, December 10, 2018
The two sides of George Harrison
I am pretty sure that I have shared these stories before, but I never realized that they happened on the exact same day. I figured I would share them as I found them in the August 1969 issue of the "Beatles Rule" fan club newsletter. This story takes place on Sunday, August 3, 1969
Geroge at 4pm at Kinfauns by Sue B.
One of our German friends was sitting outside. He said the chauffeur told him, George wouldn't but up until 4, so I went and talked to Terry Doran. Then a girl and her brother drove up with something to give George. Terry brought it in. A few minutes later George came out, said "hello" to the girl, then he looked at me, smiled and said, "and what are you doing here?" I said, "Oh, I'm just lurking about." Then the German came running up with a camera and autograph book. George talked to him in German. I asked him if I could take a picture, he said "sure." I asked if he had been recording by himself on Friday night. He said he was re-mixing tapes for their new album. He said, "Make sure you tell all your friends about it." I asked if Pattie was home and he said she was in Paris modeling for the fall collection (however she was in the car with George later that evening).
I was so hot and thirsty that I asked him for a glass of water. He said, "Sure, come on in." We walked up the lawn and I asked who painted the outside of the house. He said he and a friend did it. He went over to the refrigerator and asked me what I wanted: apple cider, orange juice, milk, water, etc. I really didn't expect all that so I said I'll take anything as long as it is wet. So he took out a can of orange soda. I thought he would have an electric can opener, but instead, he took off the whole top of the can with a regular one. Why not punch a hole in it? It was really funny. There he is struggling with this can and I'm just standing there next to him like I'd known him for years. He poured the soda into one of the tallest glasses I've ever seen. I never drank so much in my life! You know, I thought I'd be scared silly, but I felt perfectly natural in there. I couldn't believe he was so human and nice and natural.
George at 7pm at Kinfauns by Barb F.
It was about 7:00 in the evening when we arrived at George's house. We talked to Terry Doran, who seemed to be minding the house while George was out. We started to leave but decided to go back up to the door and ask Terry if we could stay and wait for George to come home. Just as we were going up the driveway, we heard George's car coming up from behind us. So I stopped, and so did George. I wasn't quite prepared for what happened, I mean I didn't expect him to do a song and dance because we were coming up his driveway but to yell at us right off the bat was a little uncalled for. Anyway, I was quite upset.
Geroge at 4pm at Kinfauns by Sue B.
One of our German friends was sitting outside. He said the chauffeur told him, George wouldn't but up until 4, so I went and talked to Terry Doran. Then a girl and her brother drove up with something to give George. Terry brought it in. A few minutes later George came out, said "hello" to the girl, then he looked at me, smiled and said, "and what are you doing here?" I said, "Oh, I'm just lurking about." Then the German came running up with a camera and autograph book. George talked to him in German. I asked him if I could take a picture, he said "sure." I asked if he had been recording by himself on Friday night. He said he was re-mixing tapes for their new album. He said, "Make sure you tell all your friends about it." I asked if Pattie was home and he said she was in Paris modeling for the fall collection (however she was in the car with George later that evening).
I was so hot and thirsty that I asked him for a glass of water. He said, "Sure, come on in." We walked up the lawn and I asked who painted the outside of the house. He said he and a friend did it. He went over to the refrigerator and asked me what I wanted: apple cider, orange juice, milk, water, etc. I really didn't expect all that so I said I'll take anything as long as it is wet. So he took out a can of orange soda. I thought he would have an electric can opener, but instead, he took off the whole top of the can with a regular one. Why not punch a hole in it? It was really funny. There he is struggling with this can and I'm just standing there next to him like I'd known him for years. He poured the soda into one of the tallest glasses I've ever seen. I never drank so much in my life! You know, I thought I'd be scared silly, but I felt perfectly natural in there. I couldn't believe he was so human and nice and natural.
George at 7pm at Kinfauns by Barb F.
It was about 7:00 in the evening when we arrived at George's house. We talked to Terry Doran, who seemed to be minding the house while George was out. We started to leave but decided to go back up to the door and ask Terry if we could stay and wait for George to come home. Just as we were going up the driveway, we heard George's car coming up from behind us. So I stopped, and so did George. I wasn't quite prepared for what happened, I mean I didn't expect him to do a song and dance because we were coming up his driveway but to yell at us right off the bat was a little uncalled for. Anyway, I was quite upset.
Monday, July 23, 2018
Monday, June 11, 2018
Sunday, May 27, 2018
Thursday, May 10, 2018
Wednesday, May 9, 2018
Monday, March 19, 2018
At home with Harrison
The thing on the top shelf appears to be similar to the award Paul is holding in this photo. The smaller one might even be the one Ringo is holding. What do you think?
Thursday, March 8, 2018
Tuesday, January 23, 2018
Tuesday, October 10, 2017
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