Vernon's Anniversary

On March 15th 1917, Vernon Henry St.John (1896-1974), turned 21 years, becoming the 7th Viscount St.John and 6th Viscount Bolingbroke, though this was not officially recognised until many years later. This collection, drawn together to mark the anniversary of his death 50 years ago in 2024, recalls that memorable Spring day when representatives of the tenantry presented the young viscount with a magnificent silver rose bowl on the steps of Lydiard House.

A reporter from The Daily Sketch wrote: 'The hope having been expressed in the speeches at the presentation today that whether in music, parliament or diplomacy, the young viscount would carry on the noble traditions of his family, I asked Lord Bolingbroke what were his ambitions. " I am passionately fond of music" he replied, his hazel eyes brightening in his pale ascetic face. " It is all I live for".' The fact that Vernon St.John received his army calling up papers on the eve of his birthday made his response all the more poignant. The battlefields of Passchendaele and the Somme awaited him.

Discover photographs, newspaper articles and diary entries that recall this memorable day and highlight the close associations between Lydiard's landed gentry, the local rural community and Swindon commerce. This collection is generously sponsored by Deacon and Son (Swindon) Ltd.