Growing Up at the Villa (1904-1920)

The Acton Boys

For both Harold and William, the Villa transcended mere architecture; it was a dynamic hub—a salon alive with vibrant discourse, convivial gatherings, and cherished friendships with kindred spirits, such as the gifted Braggiotti children. Amidst the convergence of art, history, and nature, enduring memories were forged under the tutelage of erudite mentors who left an indelible mark on the Acton siblings.

Quest to Learn and Play

The city of Florence, at the beginning of the 20th century, provided young Harold and William with an engaging and unique international community. Learning begins at birth and continues throughout one’s lifetime. Schools and tutors provide structured learning environments and then life experiences: games played, books read, art and music appreciated, and places visited, complete the learning process.

Third Culture Children

The Acton boys were exposed to a multicultural world at a young age. Their grandfather, Roger Acton, was counselor to the Egyptian Ministry of Agriculture and Commerce; their uncle, Guy Mitchell, had been traveling to Asia with their mother since the early 1900’. As part of the "Anglo-American Colony,” in Florence, they mingled with people from various backgrounds and their tastes reflected the globalization of the world during that time period, at the height of European colonization.

In Their Shadow: The Influence of Role Models

Even as a child, Harold Acton had his eyes on adulthood. Profoundly influenced by his encounters with adults, the residents and visitors of Villa La Pietra emerged as ‘role models’ in Harold’s youth. These early encounters at the Villa shaped his value of education, which prompted him to leave his family’s vast estate to Oxford University, and his artistic taste, which we see reflected by the Acton Collection today.

Exploring Beauty Through Art

Villa La Pietra’s lush gardens provided a sanctuary for exploration and contemplation, while its walls bore witness to the timeless beauty of Medieval and Renaissance art. In this idyllic setting, Harold and William's artistic sensibilities flourished, nurtured by the rich tapestry of experiences woven into their daily lives. Both Harold and William recognized early on the profound lessons that this surrounding environment could impart, as eloquently expressed by Harold: "Thus I did not have to look far to discover beauty, nor was there any need for me to rove beyond the garden gates" (Acton 1948, 7).

Florence, the Villa, and World War I

In the summer of 1914, Europe was thrust into turmoil with the outbreak of World War I. On August 2 in Venezia—on a postcard of the XI Esposizione Internazionale d’Arte in Venice—Hortense Mitchell Acton describes how “War [was] declared—all countries hastily preparing. Italy to remain neutral as long as possible—but nothing may be exported—Guy [her brother Guy Mitchell] telegraphed from Germany for 2000 marks—his motor may be sequestered there. Nurse with children in England Harold to stay there. I should not leave Italy but go […] war ships busy taking stores and sailors with their boxes going out to ships”(transcription from a postcard dated August 1914).

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Resources, References, and Books on Display