German POWs Sent To Luxurious Estate In The 1940s Didn't Realize The Major Catch

No matter what it looks like, a prison is still a prison. That’s something that high-ranking Nazi generals forgot between 1942 and 1945, when they were sent to an experimental Allied Forces prison, the Trent Park House. The POWs were given plenty of freedom while they were captives on the property. What they didn’t realize was that the Allied Forces were getting something in return for the POW's captivity...

Settling in

Over the years, about 3,000 Nazi soldiers came through the Trent Park House, and 59 lived there continuously. Those being held at the facility could wander about freely — there were no cells or prison bars. At least, not literally.

Parties to prisoners

This home was previously owned and remodeled by Sir Philip Sassoon, who was known for being witty and for hosting elaborate parties on the estate. He died in 1939, and the house was turned into a facility to support the Allies in WWII.

Relaxing environment

In Trent Park, they could read, play pool, table tennis or regular tennis, take English classes, and buy plenty of beer and cigarettes. They were also paid in pound sterling every month. Artists were given art materials. It seems like a relaxing place.

Hearing it all

Of course, there was a reason for all the kindness to the prisoners besides general goodwill. All of the interactions in every corner of the massive mansion were being monitored in ways they never suspected.