Transporting us back a century to the refined streets of St. James’s-place, London, the pages of history unveil a grand baptism that unfolded on April 7, 1808. The focal point of this extravagant affair was none other than Lord Mauchline, the infant son of the Earl of Moira and the Countess of Loudoun and Moira.

The stage was set at the opulent residence of the noble Moira family, where the Lord Bishop of Limerick presided over the baptismal ceremony. A distinguished guest list included illustrious figures such as His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, the Duke of Norfolk (proxy for the Earl of Ailesbury), and the Countess of Ailesbury. Unfortunately, the Earl of Ailesbury’s absence due to indisposition was noted, but his presence was symbolically represented.

The infant, bestowed with the regal name George Augustus Frederick (Image), a nod to his Royal Sponsor, the Prince of Wales, was adorned in a white satin robe embellished with the finest point lace. The venue, the family library, was bathed in the warm glow of an elegant Roman lamp. A crimson velvet canopy and cushions added an air of regality to the ceremony.

The baptismal event transformed into a soirée of magnificence, attended by esteemed guests that included their Royal Highnesses the Prince of Wales, Dukes of Clarence and Sussex, the Duke of Norfolk, the Marchioness of Stafford, the Earl and Countess Spencer, the Countess of Ailesbury, Viscount Forbes, Lord Holland, Lord and Lady Kinnaird, the Right Hon. R. B. Sheridan, and Mr Adair.

The subsequent dinner in the grand saloon elevated the affair to a lavish banquet. The table, adorned with the finest plate and gilt accents, exuded opulence. The Prince of Wales presided at the head, flanked by the Marchioness of Stafford and the Countess of Moira and Loudon. The Countess of Loudoun, a vision in a white satin robe and a diamond bandeau, added a touch of glamour to the gathering.

Earl Spencer, resplendent in a superb Court dress, contributed to the visual spectacle. The distinguished attendees encompassed the Duke de Grammont, the Count D’Artois, the Duchesses of Leeds, the Marchionesses of Exeter and Salisbury, the Countesses of Carhampton and Albemarle, Lord Grantley, Lady Sarah Spencer, the Ladies Cecil, and many more, representing the crème de la crème of London’s rank and fashion.

Notably, Mauchline, the title bestowed upon the son of Earl Moira, holds historical significance, tracing its roots to a village in Ayrshire and being the second title in the ancient Loudoun Peerage.

As we revisit this splendid event a century hence, the baptism of Lord Mauchline stands as a testament to the opulence, social standing, and regal traditions that characterized the grand affairs of London’s high society in the early 19th century.

Globe – Tuesday 07 April 1908