Charles Spencer has never been afraid to lift the lid on his family history, charting the highs and low of the Spencer dynasty and on Friday he opened up about a family death.
Sharing a photo of a looming tomb, that featured a figure in prayer, the Earl explained that it belonged to his ancestor, Sir John Spencer, who lived in the late 15th and early 16th centuries. Sir John played a very important part in the family's history as he brought the farmland where Althorp House resides, building the property in 1508.
Charles shared the photo on a poignant anniversary as it marked 501 years since his ancestor had passed away.
"#OTD exactly 501 years ago, my ancestor Sir John Spencer died," the father-of-seven said. "He was a businessman, sheep farmer, sheriff and politician who was knighted by Henry VIII in 1519. Most importantly, he bought the farmland around Althorp and then built @althorphouse in 1508."
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This week's episode at Spencer1508.com pays tribute to the man who is the founder of the Spencer Family."
As ever, Charles' followers shared their interest in his latest post as one mused: "A visionary and a legend definitely!!!! Thanks for sharing this fascinating tribute."
A second commented: "How absolutely fabulous to have that history of one's family intertwined with 'the greater history' even," and a third penned: "How absolutely fascinating. Thank you so much Charles for sharing this. I wish I knew so much more about my family, for my Dad really, even just a couple of generations back to find out where my paternal grandfather was from and his parents etc!"
It has been a difficult week for the Earl as he attended the funeral of his beloved aunt, Mary, who was the older sister of his mother, Frances, who passed away in 2004.
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Fans immediately reached out to Charles to send their condolences. One wrote: "She looks to have been a delightful person with a wonderful sense of humour, indeed. My deepest condolences to you and your family. May she Rest In Peace."
A second told him: "Nephews are always special to aunts. My condolences." And a third said: "Sorry to see this Charles. She looks to have been a wonderful woman x."
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