Dining with Winston Churchill’s Granddaughter

On Monday night, I had the opportunity to hear Celia Sandys, Winston Churchill’s granddaughter, speak. After her speech, I had the opportunity to eat dinner with her, as well as other students, some faculty members, and a few representatives from The Churchill Centre.

Photo that was taken at dinner.

Sandys has written five books about Churchill, and has been recognized as a speaker and TV presenter on Churchill’s life.

While she was on campus, she gave four talks, each of which was on a different topic. The session I attended was titled “Memories of my Grandfather,” and centered on Sandys stories about growing up with “The British Bulldog” as a grandfather.

Her presentation offered a new perspective on such an influential leader, and I learned a great deal about who Churchill was aside from his public role.

Sandys reminisced about her childhood, and told accounts of Christmas’ at Chequers Court, the country residence of the Prime Minister.

As she spoke, Sandys fondly called upon painting holidays in the South of France with her grandpapa, who was a talented artist. She reminisced about the different holidays they took, and how interesting it was for her to have the opportunity to travel during her teen years.

Sandys told accounts of Churchill’s famous siren suit (very similar to a jumpsuit/onesie), which he wore instead of suits, so he could be more comfortable, and it was much easier to put on in a rush.

During the 1953 coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, Sandys recalls standing on a balcony, waving to Churchill as he drove by in the procession.

Her stories humanized “The British Bulldog,” as she told accounts of his witty nature, always ready with some sort of smart remark or comeback.

At dinner, Sandys asked us several questions about our lives as college students in the United States, and she offered insights into life in the United Kingdom.

I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to meet Sandys and learn so much about Churchill. Having this opportunity was just another reminder of why I chose to come to Miami.

“We are all worms, but I do believe that I am the glow worm.” – Winston Churchill