Births on May 6

Alexander Thynn, 7th Marquess of Bath, English lieutenant and politician

Alexander George Thynn, the 7th Marquess of Bath, was a figure of considerable intrigue and influence, straddling the worlds of ancient aristocracy, landownership, and bohemian artistry. Born on 6 May 1932, he was a scion of one of England's most distinguished families, a direct descendant of Sir John Thynne who built Longleat House in the 16th century. For much of his early life, he was known by the courtesy title of Viscount Weymouth, a designation he held from 1946 until he inherited the marquessate in 1992. His passing on 4 April 2020 marked the end of an era for his family and for the unique public persona he had cultivated.

The Hereditary Peerage and Longleat Estate

As an English peer, Lord Bath occupied a distinct position within the United Kingdom's social and political landscape. The title of Marquess, one of the highest ranks in the British peerage, signifies a long lineage and considerable historical prestige. Upon succeeding his father as the 7th Marquess of Bath in 1992, he inherited not only the title but also the vast Longleat estate in Wiltshire, a magnificent stately home set within 9,000 acres of parkland and forest. Longleat is more than just an ancestral residence; it gained widespread fame in 1966 as the first safari park outside Africa, a pioneering venture that transformed the traditional country estate into a major tourist attraction and a vital part of its ongoing survival and legacy.

A Brief Stint in the House of Lords

With his inheritance of the marquessate, Lord Bath also gained the right to sit in the House of Lords, the upper chamber of the UK Parliament. He took his seat in 1992, participating in legislative debates and scrutinising government policy, a role traditionally held by hereditary peers. However, his tenure as a voting member was relatively brief. The historic House of Lords Act 1999 largely reformed the chamber, removing the automatic right of most hereditary peers to sit and vote, effectively ending his active parliamentary career in that capacity.

Beyond the Estate: Artist and Author

While his primary responsibilities revolved around his title and the stewardship of Longleat, Lord Bath was far from a conventional aristocrat. He was a passionate and prolific artist, known for his vibrant, often whimsical, murals that adorned many rooms within Longleat House, particularly his private apartments. These intricate, colourful works reflected his unconventional worldview and artistic spirit, transforming his home into a personal gallery. He also harboured a love for literature, publishing several books that offered insights into his life, philosophy, and the history of his family and estate.

The Colourful Public Persona: The "Loins of Longleat"

Perhaps what most captivated the public imagination about Lord Bath was his distinctly unconventional lifestyle and public image. He eschewed the traditional sartorial elegance often associated with the British aristocracy, instead embracing a flamboyant, 'hippy' fashion sense characterised by colourful patterned clothing, long flowing hair, and often a beard. This distinctive look made him instantly recognisable and a regular feature in the media. Central to his public persona was also the widely publicised aspect of his personal life, particularly his many female companions, controversially dubbed "wifelets" by the press. While legally married to Anna Gael, these additional relationships were a subject of enduring fascination and debate, reflecting a bohemian outlook that sharply contrasted with the staid image of many of his peers. This unconventional approach to relationships, openly discussed and documented, cemented his reputation as an eccentric and drew both fascination and criticism.

Financial Standing

Despite his counter-cultural leanings, the stewardship of the Longleat estate and its successful commercial ventures ensured a substantial financial foundation. The Sunday Times Rich List in 2009 estimated his wealth at approximately £157 million. This figure underscored the successful diversification of the estate, balancing its historical significance with modern commercial enterprise, largely driven by the popularity of Longleat Safari Park and other attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Alexander Thynn, 7th Marquess of Bath

Who was Alexander George Thynn?

Alexander George Thynn was the 7th Marquess of Bath, an English peer, landowner, artist, and author. He was well-known for owning the Longleat estate and for his distinctive, flamboyant public persona.

What was his connection to Longleat?

Lord Bath was the owner of the historic Longleat estate, which has been the ancestral home of the Thynn family for centuries. Under his family's stewardship, Longleat became famous as the first safari park outside Africa, transforming it into a major tourist attraction.

Did he serve in the House of Lords?

Yes, as a hereditary peer, Lord Bath sat in the House of Lords from 1992, when he inherited his title, until 1999. His active parliamentary role ended with the House of Lords Act 1999, which removed most hereditary peers' automatic right to sit and vote.

What made his public image so unique?

Lord Bath was distinctive for his 'hippy' fashion sense, often appearing in colourful, patterned attire, and for his unconventional personal life. The media famously referred to his many female companions as "wifelets," a term that became synonymous with his bohemian lifestyle.

Was he involved in art?

Absolutely. Lord Bath was a dedicated artist, particularly known for the vibrant and elaborate murals he painted within his private apartments at Longleat House, turning parts of his home into a personal artistic showcase.

What was his estimated wealth?

In 2009, The Sunday Times Rich List estimated his wealth to be approximately £157 million, reflecting the significant assets and successful commercial ventures of the Longleat estate.