P.K. and Shirley Bramlett, along with their son, Robert, have spent the last 4 years renovating the castle and grounds. The Kent Bramlett Foundation was established in 1992 in memory of the Bramlett's son who died in a car crash. Many of the furnishings, windows, antiques, and gardens are in memory or honor of loved ones that the donors have lost and wanted to memorialize. The Bramletts have furnished two suites in the castle's attic rooms as a sanctuary for those who need "time away" from their everyday life to mourn the loss of loved ones.
The Great Hall is clothed with flags from many countries hanging from the 40-foot ceiling. The long center pub table is reminiscent of a British setting. Stain-glassed windows add to the splendor of the room. A marble top table, leaded windows, brass lamps, an antique chandelier, and a reproductions of watercolors by Prince Charles adorn the parlor. The "Sir Walter Scott" library contains hundreds of law books, original tile around a gas fireplace, and antique chairs. A lovely alcove turret is tucked on the second story of the castle.
The Elizabethan Room, the first suite, is a blue and white French-style room with a doll collection and furniture from J. J. Share of Nashville, who died at the age of 18. Shirley Bramlett's artwork, English paintings, French dishes, and brass lights highlight the room. The Edwardian Room is the second suite for guests that the Bramlett's have converted. It features stained-glass windows, blue velvet fabrics, antique ballroom draperies, a press-tin mantelpiece, brass bed, and imported painted Mexican sink. Lamps that are reproductions of the ones on the Titanic sit upon two antique sewing machines. The whole effect is a showpiece of Shirley's decorating talents.
The Castle is open for tours, luncheons (with a minimum of 20) or special occasions by appointment. Many weddings, candlelight dinners, receptions, and other events are held annually in the castle on in the grounds. You can contact the Hundred Oaks Castle at 931-967-8583 from noon until 4:00 p.m. for more information. You can leave a message if no one answers. If you want to feel like a princess, visit this castle just a short drive from Huntsville.
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