First written entry 1406 (≈ 1406)
Talcy's dependence quoted for the first time.
XVe siècle
Initial construction
Initial construction XVe siècle (≈ 1550)
Closed as a farm.
XVIIe siècle
Transformation into residence
Transformation into residence XVIIe siècle (≈ 1750)
Expansion and development of the gardens.
1921
Acquisition by Storrs
Acquisition by Storrs 1921 (≈ 1921)
Becoming owned by the American sculptor.
20 décembre 1985
Registration in MH
Registration in MH 20 décembre 1985 (≈ 1985)
Partial protection of the castle and outbuildings.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Main Logis; terrace; wash; input grid; (currently chapel) (Box 1966 ZX 64): inscription by order of 20 December 1985
Key figures
John Henry Bradley Storrs - American sculptor
Owner from 1921 to 1956.
Origin and history
The castle of Chantecaille, located in the commune of Mer en Loir-et-Cher, is mentioned for the first time in 1406 as an outbuilding of Talcy. Originally, it was a farm built in the 15th century, before being expanded and transformed in the 17th century. The changes include the elevation of the central building, the modification of the openings, and the addition of a slate cover. The terraces and gardens also date from this period.
In the 20th century, the castle became the property of the American sculptor John Henry Bradley Storrs, who acquired it in 1921 and resided there until his death in 1956. The monument has been partially listed as a historical monument since 20 December 1985, protecting the main house, the terrace, the washhouse, the entrance gate and an old cooler transformed into a chapel.
Available sources, including Wikipedia and Monumentum, highlight its architectural evolution and its link with the American artist. The castle thus illustrates a transition between a medieval farm and an aristocratic residence, then an artist's home in the 20th century.
