Photograph of guests attending 6th Viscount Bolingbroke's Coming of Age celebrations, March 1917

A recently discovered photograph recording Vernon St.John's coming of age celebrations on March 15th 1917. Following the formal presentation of a solid silver rose bowl by representatives of the tenantry, Lady Bolingbroke hosted a reception for friends, tenants and others associated with the estate.

Viscount Bolingbroke can be seen on the steps of the house, wearing a bow tie and glasses. His mother, Lady Bolingbroke, is standing just in front of the window wearing a broad brimmed hat. The gentleman seen hands in the pockets of his white trousers was the local vicar, Revd Percy Harrison. He was an important friend and mentor of the young viscount, nurturing Vernon's interest in wildlife and natural history.

The photograph belonged to Lord Bolingbroke until his death in 1974. It was generously gifted to The Friend of Lydiard Park by a private donor in 2023.