William Dodge James, was the son of a wealthy American merchant, who was raised and educated in England. He married Evelyn Elizabeth Forbes, daughter of the 4th Baronet of Newe, who became a celebrated society hostess of the period. James was a big game hunter and Edward, Prince of Wales, was one of the frequent visitors to their West Dean country estate in West Sussex.

John Arthur James, MVO DL (1853–1917) was the son of a wealthy Liverpool merchant who became a friend of the Prince of Wales, sharing his interest in horse racing. In 1885 he married Mary Venetia Cavendish-Bentinck (1861–1948), godmother to Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother.