Samuel de Wilde
Diana’s Great great great maternal Grandfather was Samuel de Wilde (1751-1811). He was famous for his theatrical paintings – which represented actors of the day in their various roles.
His studio was conveniently placed in Drury Lane London for his frequent exhibitions at The Royal Academy, London. His paintings dominate the collection in ‘The Garrick Club’, London.
Somerset Maugham had the second largest collection of de Wildes theatrical paintings that he kept at his villa in the South of France. This article shows Maugham standing with a back drop of De Wildes paintings behind him. He bequeathed the collection to the nation on his death.
Captain William Murley RN
A Victorian illumination showing the number of battles that Captain William Murley RN – Diana’s Maternal Great Great Grandfather was engaged in – the most famous being the Battle of Trafalgar onboard the ‘Belle Isle’.
Captain William Mackie
Diana’s Great Grandfather was Captain William Mackie (1859-1887).
He was Clipper Ship Captain of ‘The Ben Nevis’, which on one occasion took the record from ‘The Cutty Sark’ for the fastest time, Glasgow to Melbourne tea run. The Ben Nevis model was made for Captain Mackie by the ships carpenter.