Here’s a gallery of excellent photographs of the Cottesmore foxhounds shot by Nico Morgan at Bisbrooke in the English Shires. The Cottesmore is a venerable pack, having been established in 1666 by Viscount Lowther. Perhaps the most colorful Master was Hugh Lowther, fifth Earl of Lonsdale, known to history as The Yellow Earl. Born in 1857, “his name was readily associated with the highest echelons of sport and scandal.”
This, according to the National Sporting Library in Middleburg, Virginia, which boasts in their rare book collection three hundred books from Lord Lonsdale’s library.
In his time he was also Master of the Quorn and Woodland Pytchley, in addition to the Cottesmore—his family hunt. His long-suffering wife and estate trustees notwithstanding, he spent money extravagantly on his horses, hounds, and social life—his affair with Lily Langtry being a celebrated example of the latter.
Despite his faults, Lord Lonsdale had many redeeming features. He and his wife remained loyal partners throughout their lives. He was a true sportsmen, well-regarded by both Victorian Society and the working class. He cleaned up the sport of boxing—illegal in England at the time—and through his efforts rules were established and the sport was legalized. He firmly disciplined his fields from running roughshod over farmers’ lands, thus gaining the great appreciation of his local farmers.
Cottesmore bloodlines are prized by many North American hunts.
Posted September 22, 2011
Please click any image below to start a slideshow:
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