Lord Rokeby's Aquatic Obsession

Lord Rokeby (1713 –1800), also known as Matthew Robinson, the 2nd Baron Rokeby, was a peculiar figure with an extraordinary fascination for all things watery. His eccentricity was particularly notable during a time when drinking water was associated with significant health risks due to waterborne diseases. In stark contrast to prevailing norms, Rokeby chose to drink only water or beef tea. Each day, he embarked on a ritual that was both unusual and physically demanding. He would walk to the beach and then swim in the sea until he reached a point of physical exhaustion. During these daily outings, he was not alone. Rokeby was followed by a carriage and a retinue of servants, a testament to the extent of his eccentricity.

His swim in the sea was no ordinary exercise. Rokeby would often push himself to the brink of physical collapse, requiring assistance from his attendants to be dragged from the sea. The inherent dangers of his obsession with the sea eventually convinced him to construct a swimming pool on his estate. What made Rokeby's aquatic adventures even more peculiar was the presence of a joint of roast veal that would float alongside him during these extended swims. From this floating roast veal, he would occasionally snatch bites while in the water. Remarkably, Rokeby's eccentric aquatic lifestyle seemed to have no detrimental effect on his health. He lived to the remarkable age of 88, proving that even the quirkiest habits can coexist with a long and unconventional life.