Princess Diana’s Brother Shares Family Portrait with a Tragic History

When it comes to offering behind-the-scenes glimpses into history, one person always delivers. I'm talking about Charles Spencer, Princess Diana’s younger brother, who’s basically become the unofficial keeper of fascinating family facts. Whether he’s posting a portrait of his grandmother (that has an uncanny resemblance to Diana) or digging up nostalgic childhood snapshots (remember the backyard zoo situation?), Charles has a knack for storytelling that’s equal parts heartfelt and historic.

His latest post? A stunning portrait and equally captivating backstory of one of their ancestors: John Charles Spencer, known as Jack, Viscount Althorp.

“One of the lovelier portraits at @althorphouse—by Sir Joshua Reynolds—is of John Charles (known as Jack), Viscount Althorp, who later became 3rd Earl Spencer,” Charles wrote in his caption. “He is shown wearing a Van Dyck pageboy costume.”

And the story behind the painting is just as rich. Jack, Charles shared, was “a serious child” who grew up to be a devoted farmer, an early breeder of shorthorn cattle, and, surprise, a key player in British politics. Though he had “no personal ambition and was not a very good public speaker,” he became Chancellor of the Exchequer and Leader of the House of Commons. Most notably, he played a central role in the Reform Bill of 1832, which expanded voting rights in Britain and was nicknamed Althorp’s Act.

He was also known for his integrity—earning him the nickname “Honest Jack.”

His personal life had both sweetness and sorrow. Jack was persuaded to marry a bubbly socialite named Esther Acklom, who actually proposed to him, Charles notes in the caption. Despite their differences, they fell deeply in love but tragedy struck when Esther died giving birth to their first child, who also passed away. Jack never remarried, spending his days quietly farming at Althorp with just one servant.

Perhaps most remarkably, as Charles notes, Jack Spencer is the only person painted by Reynolds to have lived long enough to also be photographed. (History nerds, rejoice.)

Fans were quick to flood the comments with appreciation for the Spencer family history lesson.

“So interesting with this long family history,” one wrote. “To find a fine and decent man among your ancestors to be proud of… Not many of us can follow our traces in this detailed manner.”

Another added, “Very beautiful historical perspective, expertly painted,” while a third reflected, “I wonder if he imagined his memory would be cherished even now.”

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