THE 1ST DUKE OF WESTMINSTER (1825-1899)
Hugh, 3rd Marquess and 1st Duke of Westminster, made a significant and highly visible impact on the Grosvenor Estate.
It was he who on acceding to the title in 1869 comissioned Sir Alfred Waterhouse to rebuild Eaton, creating the magnificent victorian hall as well as Eaton Chapel and the handsome courtyard which still survives today.
The 1st Duke also oversaw a great deal of the building of London's Belgravia and, well known for being forward-thinking, was always willing to test new ideas. For example, and at a time when very few people were concerned about the environment, the Duke was writing about biodegradable coffins and encouraging a move away from lead-based paints.
At the Eaton Estate Hugh further sought to improve the standard of living for all estate employees, and to this end rebuilt almost entire villages using modern and elegant red-brick designs, stone mullion windows and tiled roofs - all of which remain today.