ELEANOR VELASCO THORNTON: 15 APRIL 1880 – 30 DECEMBER 1915
- An overview of Eleanor Velasco Thornton’s life and career, born on 15 April 1880
- She worked as a secretary for Claude Johnson and Lord Montagu of Beaulieu, serving as a muse for Charles Sykes and the inspiration for the Spirit of Ecstasy mascot
- This is the third installment in a series profiling key figures in the foundation story of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars for its 120th anniversary in 2024
- Exploring the individuals, their personalities, and connections that influenced the creation and legacy of the marque
- Each narrative highlights the human element that shaped “the best car in the world”
“Eleanor Thornton holds a special place in Rolls-Royce history. While known as the inspiration for our Spirit of Ecstasy mascot, her story is far more intricate and captivating. Her life was filled with secrets, sacrifices, and the constant shadow of scandal, yet she was a formidable woman in a male-dominated automotive world. Her involvement in a compelling human drama made her and the art she inspired immortal.”
Andrew Ball, Head of Corporate Relations and Heritage, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
Eleanor Velasco Thornton was born on April 15, 1880, in Stockwell, London. Not much is known about her early years, except that she worked as an assistant to Claude Johnson, the General Secretary of the Automobile Club of Great Britain & Ireland. She later became involved with Charles Stewart Rolls.
Living at The Pheasantry on the Kings Road, Chelsea, Eleanor resided in a creatively vibrant environment, working by day and posing as a model for artists by night. Among these artists was Charles Sykes, who illustrated her frequently.
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In 1902, Eleanor’s life shifted dramatically. She began working with John Walter Edward Douglas-Scott-Montagu on The Car Illustrated magazine as his Office Manager, leading to a clandestine romance between them.
Charles Sykes and Eleanor found themselves working together at The Car Illustrated, with Eleanor also modeling for him. Sykes created a mascot for Montagu’s Rolls‑Royce Silver Ghost, known as ‘The Whisper’, with Eleanor as the model.
Tragically, Eleanor perished in the sinking of the SS Persia in 1915, while Montagu survived with a broken heart. He honored her memory by keeping ‘The Whisper’ on all his Rolls-Royce cars until his passing.