Many people have heard of Lord Carnarvon as the man who helped discover King Tutankhamen’s tomb, but few know the origin of his wealth. So where did Lord Carnarvon get his money from? The answer may surprise you.
Lord Carnarvon’s wealth came from his family estate, Highclere Castle. The castle and its land had been in his family for centuries, and it was one of the largest estates in England at the time. The Carnarvon family also owned mines in Wales, which were a significant source of income. Additionally, Lord Carnarvon married well – his wife, Almina, was an heiress in her own right, and she brought a substantial dowry to the marriage. Together, Lord and Lady Carnarvon had a considerable amount of wealth which enabled them to finance their many expeditions and adventures.
Lord Carnarvon was not just a passive benefactor of his wealth. He was an adventurer at heart who was always searching for the next thrill. He was fascinated by Egypt, and he spent much of his life exploring the country and studying its history. Along with Howard Carter, he discovered King Tutankhamen’s tomb, which was one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of all time. But his love for adventure came at a cost – he was bitten by a mosquito while exploring Egypt and contracted an infection that proved to be fatal. Despite his untimely death, Lord Carnarvon’s legacy lives on in the countless treasures and artifacts that he helped uncover and in the fascinating story of where he got his wealth from.
The Life of Lord Carnarvon
George Herbert, 5th Earl of Carnarvon, also known as Lord Carnarvon, was a British aristocrat and an avid Egyptologist. Born on June 26, 1866, in Highclere Castle, Hampshire, he was the son of Henry Herbert, 4th Earl of Carnarvon, and Lady Evelyn Stanhope. Lord Carnarvon was educated at Eton College and later Oxford University.
After finishing his education, Lord Carnarvon served in the Grenadier Guards and later joined politics. He was a member of Parliament for High Wycombe for nineteen years, starting from 1900. However, his real passion was Egyptology, and he used his vast wealth to fund several excavations in Egypt.
- Lord Carnarvon sponsored the excavations of the Theban Necropolis in Luxor, Egypt, where he met Howard Carter in 1907.
- In 1914, Lord Carnarvon sponsored Howard Carter’s search for the tomb of Tutankhamun, which they discovered in 1922.
- Lord Carnarvon was also involved in the discovery of several other tombs and artifacts, including the tomb of Amenhotep IV.
Lord Carnarvon’s interest in Egyptology was fueled by his inheritance of Highclere Castle, which was remodeled to resemble an Egyptian-style mansion after one of his ancestors, the 3rd Earl of Carnarvon, had sponsored an Egyptological expedition in 1905.
Aside from his passion for Egyptology, Lord Carnarvon was also interested in horse racing and owned several racehorses. He was also a member of the Jockey Club and served as its senior steward from 1926 to 1933.
Lord Carnarvon’s Sources of Wealth
Lord Carnarvon’s vast wealth came from his family’s estate, which included vast lands, mines, and properties. His primary source of wealth was his ownership of Highclere Castle, which was a profitable estate that included several farms, livestock, and timber. He was also a shareholder in the Alton Towers railway.
| Properties Owned by Lord Carnarvon | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Highclere Castle | £940,000 |
| Newbury Racecourse | £130,000 |
| Mine in South Africa | £1,000,000 |
Aside from his properties, Lord Carnarvon inherited a large sum of money from his father, Henry Herbert, 4th Earl of Carnarvon. Henry was a prominent politician and a successful businessman who made his fortune from banking and investments.
In conclusion, Lord Carnarvon’s huge wealth and financial resources allowed him to sponsor several expeditions and research in Egyptology, leading to some of the most significant archaeological discoveries of modern times.
The History of Highclere Castle
Highclere Castle, located in Hampshire, England, is a magnificent estate that spans over 5,000 acres of land. One of the most famous owners of this estate was George Herbert, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon, also known as Lord Carnarvon. He is best known for his association with the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922, but where did he get his money from to acquire Highclere Castle?
- Lord Carnarvon’s Ancestry
- Inheritance
- Egyptian Expeditions
Lord Carnarvon’s ancestry played a significant role in his wealth and status. His family, the Herbet family, can be traced back to the 12th century, and they were known for their vast landholdings and political influence. In the 17th century, the family’s fortune began to grow even more due to the opening of coal mines in their land. As a result, they became one of the wealthiest families in the country.
Another source of Lord Carnarvon’s wealth was his inheritance. When his father passed away, Lord Carnarvon inherited a considerable amount of wealth and property. This inheritance allowed him to purchase Highclere Castle, which had been owned by his ancestors since the 17th century. Additionally, Lord Carnarvon inherited a vast collection of artifacts from around the world, which he showcased in Highclere Castle and later used to fund his Egyptological expeditions.
Lord Carnarvon’s passion for Egyptology led him to fund several expeditions to Egypt. However, it was his partnership with archaeologist Howard Carter that led to the most significant discovery of all – the tomb of Tutankhamun. Lord Carnarvon financed Carter’s excavation work, which ultimately led to the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922. The discovery of the tomb made headlines around the world, and Lord Carnarvon gained international fame and recognition.
The Legacy of Highclere Castle
Today, Highclere Castle is known worldwide as the filming location for the popular TV series, Downton Abbey. However, its history goes beyond the fictional characters that once lived there. Highclere Castle’s history is intertwined with the story of the Herbert family and their rise to wealth and influence. Lord Carnarvon’s legacy extends beyond his association with the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb. His passion for archaeology and Egyptology inspired a new generation of scholars and influenced the way we view ancient history. Highclere Castle remains a tangible reminder of Lord Carnarvon’s legacy and the wealth and influence of the Herbert family.
| The Herbert Family: Landholdings Over Time | |
|---|---|
| 12th – 16th Century | Baronies and manor houses in Wales and England |
| 17th – 19th Century | Highclere Castle, coal mines, landholdings in Yorkshire, Wales, and Devonshire |
| 20th Century | Lord Carnarvon’s expeditions to Egypt and artifacts collection |
Highclere Castle and the wealth and influence of the Herbert family are a testament to the power of inheritance and political influence. Although visitors today may recognize Highclere Castle as the fictional Downton Abbey, its true history and legacy go beyond the fictional world of TV dramas.
Lord Carnarvon’s Estate and Assets
Lord Carnarvon, also known as George Herbert, 5th Earl of Carnarvon, was a wealthy British aristocrat who became famous for his involvement in the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922. His wealth enabled him to pursue his interests in Egyptology and ultimately led to one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century.
Lord Carnarvon’s estate and assets were extensive and varied, including properties, artworks, collections, and investments. In this article, we will explore some of the key sources of Lord Carnarvon’s wealth.
- Highclere Castle: One of Lord Carnarvon’s most significant assets was Highclere Castle, a sprawling estate in Hampshire that has been in his family since the 17th century. The castle, which served as the principal filming location for the television series Downton Abbey, is a Grade I listed building and boasts impressive gardens, parkland, and agricultural land.
- Real Estate: Lord Carnarvon also owned several other properties, including a house in Mayfair, London, which he purchased in 1910, and a country estate in Eryrys, North Wales. He also owned a villa in Egypt, which he purchased in 1914.
- Investments: Lord Carnarvon was an active investor and had interests in various companies, including the Newbury Racecourse Company, of which he was chairman. He was also an early investor in the motor industry and owned shares in several companies, including Rolls Royce.
In addition to these assets, Lord Carnarvon owned an extensive art collection, including works by famous artists such as Reynolds, Gainsborough, and Rubens, as well as rare maps, manuscripts, and memorabilia.
Lord Carnarvon’s wealth allowed him to indulge his passion for Egyptology, and he amassed an impressive collection of artefacts from ancient Egypt. This collection included items such as jewellery, figurines, pottery, and sculptures, some of which were ultimately included in the British Museum’s collection.
Lord Carnarvon’s estate and assets were significant, providing him with the means to live a luxurious lifestyle and pursue his interests passionately. His investments, properties, and collections ultimately allowed him to fund the excavation of the tomb of Tutankhamun, a discovery that would not have been possible without his wealth and resources.
| Assets | Description |
|---|---|
| Highclere Castle | A sprawling estate in Hampshire that has been in the Carnarvon family since the 17th century |
| Real Estate | A house in Mayfair, London, a country estate in Eryrys, North Wales, and a villa in Egypt |
| Investments | Interests in various companies, including the Newbury Racecourse Company, and shares in several companies, including Rolls Royce |
| Art collection | Works by famous artists such as Reynolds, Gainsborough, and Rubens, as well as rare maps, manuscripts, and memorabilia |
| Egyptian artefacts | Items such as jewellery, figurines, pottery, and sculptures, some of which were ultimately included in the British Museum’s collection |
Lord Carnarvon’s estate and assets were diverse and impressive, providing him with the means to support his interests in Egyptology and pursue his passion for archaeology. His wealth ultimately led to the discovery of one of the most significant archaeological treasures of all time.
The Discovery of King Tut’s Tomb
Lord Carnarvon, who was the financial backer for the discovery of King Tut’s tomb, had a fascinating background. Born in 1866 into the aristocratic world of Victorian England, Lord Carnarvon inherited a huge fortune at a young age. However, he was a sickly child and suffered from numerous health problems throughout his life. He spent many of his younger years traveling the world to improve his health, and his journeys eventually led him to Egypt.
- In 1907, Lord Carnarvon began funding excavations in Egypt with archaeologist Howard Carter.
- Over the next ten years, they had a few successes but were beginning to lose hope of making a groundbreaking discovery.
- In 1914, World War I broke out, and Lord Carnarvon was forced to return to England and put his funding of the expeditions on hold.
After the war, Lord Carnarvon and Carter resumed their search for hidden tombs. In November of 1922, they stumbled upon a tomb that would change the course of history.
The tomb they discovered belonged to the young pharaoh King Tutankhamun, who had died in 1323 BC at the age of 19. The tomb contained over 5,000 artifacts of incredible value and beauty, including a solid gold coffin and an elaborate throne with intricate carvings.
| Item | Estimated Value (Today) |
|---|---|
| Solid gold coffin | $15 million |
| Golden mask | $2 million |
| Golden throne | $750,000 |
The discovery of King Tut’s tomb made headlines across the world and brought immense wealth to Lord Carnarvon and Carter.
Unfortunately, Lord Carnarvon’s involvement ended tragically. He contracted an infected mosquito bite while in Egypt and died soon after. Rumors circulated that he had been cursed by the pharaoh’s spirit for disturbing his tomb, but this was likely just a sensationalized story created by the media. Regardless, the discovery of King Tut’s tomb remains one of the great archaeological finds of all time and a testament to the dedication of Lord Carnarvon and Howard Carter.
The Financial Investments of Lord Carnarvon
George Herbert, 5th Earl of Carnarvon, was born into a wealthy family and inherited a substantial fortune from his father. However, he was also a shrewd investor and made several wise financial decisions throughout his life. Here are five of his notable investments:
- Egyptian Antiquities: Carnarvon was a passionate Egyptologist and invested heavily in Egyptian antiquities. He purchased a tomb in Thebes and discovered several significant artifacts, including the tomb of Tutankhamun.
- Railways: Carnarvon invested in several railway enterprises, which were a booming industry in the 19th century. He owned shares in the Great Western Railway and the Metropolitan Railway, among others.
- Real Estate: Carnarvon owned several properties throughout England, including Highclere Castle, which served as the filming location for the popular series Downton Abbey.
- Stocks and Bonds: Carnarvon was a savvy investor in the stock market and held shares in various industries. He also owned government bonds, which provided a stable source of income.
- Mining: Carnarvon invested in several mining ventures, including gold mines in South Africa and copper mines in Spain.
Overall, Lord Carnarvon’s diversified investment portfolio allowed him to maintain his wealth and even increase it over time. His passion for Egyptology not only enriched his personal life but also proved to be a profitable investment.
In addition to his impressive financial investments, Lord Carnarvon was also a philanthropist and contributed to various charitable causes. He donated money to hospitals, schools, and other organizations in need.
Conclusion
Lord Carnarvon’s financial acumen and diverse investment portfolio allowed him to maintain his wealth and make significant archaeological discoveries in Egypt. His legacy as a wealthy and philanthropic aristocrat lives on today.
| Investment | Industry | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Egyptian Antiquities | Archaeology | Egypt |
| Railways | Transportation | England |
| Real Estate | Property | England |
| Stocks and Bonds | Finance | Global |
| Mining | Resources | South Africa, Spain |
Lord Carnarvon’s investment ventures consisted of archaeology, transportation, property, finance, and resources in locations spread throughout Egypt, England, and the global market.
Lord Carnarvon’s Marriages and Inheritances
Lord Carnarvon, also known as George Herbert, was born into a wealthy family in 1866. However, his wealth increased significantly when he married Almina Wombwell, the daughter of a wealthy industrialist, in 1895. The marriage was a strategic move to boost his already considerable fortune. Almina inherited around £500,000 from her father when he died, which was a tremendous sum at the time.
But it wasn’t just Almina’s inheritance that contributed to Lord Carnarvon’s wealth. Her father, Alfred de Rothschild, was an incredibly powerful banker and financier, and his connections likely helped Lord Carnarvon in his own financial dealings. Additionally, Almina herself was no stranger to making shrewd investments. She owned shares in several successful companies and managed her own stock portfolio.
Inheritances
- Lord Carnarvon inherited Highclere Castle, which has become famous as the filming location for Downton Abbey. The castle and its extensive grounds have been in the Carnarvon family for generations.
- When Lord Carnarvon’s father died in 1890, he inherited the title of Earl of Carnarvon and a significant portion of his family’s wealth.
- Lord Carnarvon’s cousin, Aubrey Herbert, also left him a sizeable inheritance when he died in 1923.
Marriages
Lord Carnarvon’s marriages were instrumental in his financial success. In addition to Almina Wombwell, he also married Anne Catherine Tredick Wendell, the daughter of a wealthy American banker. Her father’s fortune, combined with Lord Carnarvon’s own wealth, allowed them to live a luxurious lifestyle, which included extensive traveling to exotic locations and indulging in expensive hobbies like motor racing.
Lord Carnarvon’s third marriage was to actress Tilly Losch, who was known for her talent as a dancer. Although this marriage didn’t provide him with any significant financial gain, it did give him access to Hollywood’s elite circles, which may have opened up new business opportunities for him.
Inheritance Table
| Inheritance Source | Year | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Almina Wombwell’s inheritance | 1897 | £500,000 |
| Earl of Carnarvon title and family wealth | 1890 | N/A |
| Aubrey Herbert’s inheritance | 1923 | Undisclosed |
Lord Carnarvon’s wealth came from a variety of sources, but his marriages and inheritances played a significant role in his financial success. Almina Wombwell’s immense inheritance, combined with the financial connections of her father and Lord Carnarvon’s family wealth, allowed them to live a luxurious lifestyle that was the envy of many. Lord Carnarvon’s subsequent marriages to wealthy women further added to his considerable fortune.
Lord Carnarvon’s Contributions to Society and Philanthropy
Lord Carnarvon was widely known for his immense contributions to society and philanthropy through his immense wealth and generosity. His wealth was acquired through various sources, but there was one that stood out; his inheritance. He inherited the bulk of his wealth from his father, the third Lord Carnarvon, who was a prominent figure in Victorian society.
Despite being born into a life of luxury and privilege, Lord Carnarvon was not content with just living off his inherited wealth. He was deeply committed to using his wealth and privilege to better the lives of others, and he did so in a number of ways.
- Lord Carnarvon was a patron of the arts, frequently commissioning paintings and sculptures from artists he admired.
- He was also an avid collector of antiquities and was involved in numerous archaeological expeditions. He famously financed the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun in Egypt, which was one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century.
- Lord Carnarvon was a passionate horse breeder and was instrumental in the establishment of the National Stud.
Lord Carnarvon’s philanthropic efforts were just as significant as his contributions to society. He was a generous benefactor to many charitable causes and was a prominent member of numerous social and charitable organizations.
One of his most significant philanthropic efforts was his support of the British Red Cross. During World War One, Lord Carnarvon used his wealth to purchase ambulances and medical supplies for the organization, which helped save countless lives.
| Philanthropic Causes Supported by Lord Carnarvon |
|---|
| British Red Cross |
| Salvation Army |
| Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings |
| Royal National Lifeboat Institution |
Lord Carnarvon’s contributions to society and philanthropy were significant, and his legacy continues to be felt to this day. His commitment to bettering the lives of others is an example for us all to follow, and his generosity and compassion continue to inspire others to make a difference in their communities.
FAQs: Where Did Lord Carnarvon Get His Money From?
1) Was Lord Carnarvon born into wealth?
No, Lord Carnarvon was not born into wealth. He inherited his title, but not his fortune.
2) Did Lord Carnarvon inherit his fortune from his family?
Yes, eventually Lord Carnarvon inherited a fortune from his mother and stepfather.
3) How did Lord Carnarvon’s family make their money?
Lord Carnarvon’s family made their money through a variety of means, including coal mining and investments in real estate and railways.
4) Did Lord Carnarvon have any business ventures of his own?
Yes, Lord Carnarvon invested in various businesses and industries, including shipping, banking, and gold mining.
5) Did Lord Carnarvon have any connections to the British government or monarchy?
Yes, Lord Carnarvon was closely connected to the British government and monarchy. He was a member of the House of Lords and served as an aide-de-camp to Queen Victoria.
6) How did Lord Carnarvon’s financial situation change after he discovered King Tut’s tomb?
Lord Carnarvon’s financial situation improved significantly after he discovered King Tut’s tomb. He sold the rights to the excavation to a newspaper, and the resulting media frenzy brought in millions of dollars.
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