Elliot Terrace, Plymouth

Elliot Terrace was built in 1860 by "Honest John" Pethick, a well-known Victorian property developer who later became Lord Mayor and City Alderman. The building was later acquired by Waldorf Astor in 1908 when he came to Plymouth as a Unionist Parliamentary Candidate.

Waldorf Astor was successful in the 1910 General Election and was re-elected in 1918, but he was forced to surrender his seat in the Commons following the death of his father Viscount Astor. In the resulting by-election, his wife, Nancy, stood and became the MP for Plymouth Sutton in 1919, making her the first woman MP to sit in the Commons.

Waldorf Astor, who was appointed Mayor without being a member of the Council, held the Office between 1939 and 1944 during the war years. He played an instrumental role in bringing together the people to formulate the rebuilding of Plymouth, leading to the production in 1943 of the 'Plan for Plymouth'.

Waldorf Astor passed away in 1952, and Nancy Astor in 1964. Before her death, Nancy gave 3 Elliot Terrace to the City as a residence for future Lord Mayors. Today, the building is used for civic and other hospitality, by visiting dignitaries and circuit judges.

Elliot Terrace is an important part of Plymouth's history, having been associated with some of the city's most influential figures, including the first female MP to sit in the House of Commons.