Walter Buckmaster: The Dashing Polo Player and Stockbroker
A Shining Star in the World of Polo
Walter Buckmaster was a British polo player who made a name for himself in the early 20th century, winning not one, but two Olympic silver medals in the sport. Born on October 16, 1872, Buckmaster's aristocratic background and athletic prowess set him apart as a formidable force in the polo world.
Early Life and Education
Buckmaster was born in Wimbledon, Surrey, to Thomas Walter Buckmaster and Emma Caroline Venables. His father's sister, Maria Sarah Buckmaster, was the mother of
Alfred North Whitehead, the renowned mathematician and philosopher. Buckmaster was educated at Repton and Trinity College, Cambridge, where he developed a passion for sports, particularly association football and polo. He played for both Repton and Cambridge and was a member and later Captain of the Cambridge polo team.
Polo Career Highlights
- In 1900, Buckmaster was part of the BLO Polo Club Rugby Polo team that won the silver medal at the Summer Olympics in Paris.
- In 1908, he won his second Olympic silver medal as a member of the Hurlingham Club team at the London Summer Olympics.
- In 1902, he was part of the winning team in the International Polo Cup, also known as the Newport Cup and the Westchester Cup, playing at Hurlingham.
A Life Beyond Polo
Beyond his polo career, Buckmaster had a successful career in the stock exchange. He was a founding partner in Buckmaster & Moore, a prestigious stockbroking firm. During World War I, he served in the Service Sanitaire Ambulance, attached to the French Army, despite being over 42 years old.
Personal Life and Later Years
Buckmaster married Ida Sarah Blyth in 1896 and had two daughters, Eulalie Agnes Selby and Beryl Evelyn Tracey. In 1928, he moved to the countryside and lived at Moreton Manor, Moreton Morrell, where he became Master of the Warwickshire Foxhounds. He passed away on October 30, 1942, at the age of 70.
Legacy
Walter Buckmaster's legacy extends beyond his impressive polo career and his contributions to the world of finance. He was a true gentleman and a devoted family man, whose love for sports and adventure inspired many. Today, he remains an important figure in the history of polo, a reminder of the sport's rich heritage and the dedication required to excel at the highest level.
FAQ
Who was Walter Buckmaster?
Walter Buckmaster was an English businessman and polo player, best known for co-founding Buckmaster & Moore, a prominent investment firm.
What was Walter Buckmasters polo career like?
Buckmaster was an accomplished polo player and competed at the international level, representing England in several tournaments.
What was Walter Buckmasters business career like?
Buckmaster co-founded Buckmaster & Moore in the early 20th century, which became a leading investment firm in the UK.
What was Walter Buckmasters role in the development of polo in the UK?
Buckmaster played a key role in promoting and developing polo in the UK, helping to establish the sport as a popular pastime among the British aristocracy.
What was Walter Buckmasters personal life like?
Buckmaster came from a prominent English family and was known for his philanthropic work, particularly in support of education and healthcare.
