Valued at approximately 12 million pounds during the 1920s, Alfred Loewenstein stood as the third-wealthiest individual globally. His fortune originated from early investments in the electric power sector and artificial silk production. Today, his historical narrative is dominated by his inexplicable disappearance while flying over the English Channel in his personal aircraft during the summer of 1928.
Early Career and Wartime Service
Born in 1877 to a banking family in Brussels, Loewenstein established his own financial institution by the early 20th century. By 1914, he had already attained significant personal wealth. During World War I, he served in the Belgian Army, earning the title of Captain. His financial influence remained substantial; he notably proposed a 50 million US dollar interest-free loan to the Belgian government to stabilize the currency, a deal ultimately rejected by the state.
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Loewenstein concentrated his capital in international infrastructure, specifically through his Belgian company, Société Internationale d'Énergie Hydro-Électrique, known as SIDRO. He expanded his reach by partnering with Sir James Hamet Dunn, successfully profiting from ventures in British Celanese. By 1926, he founded International Holdings and Investments Limited to manage his assets. His status grew globally, leading to his appointment as a Companion of the Order of the Bath by the British government.
A Fatal Flight
On 4 July 1928, Loewenstein boarded his private Fokker F.VIIa/3m trimotor at Croydon Airport, destined for Brussels. While crossing the English Channel at 4,000 feet, he walked to the rear of the cabin to use the lavatory and never returned. His secretary discovered the aircraft's entrance door open and flapping. Despite an investigation by the British Air Ministry concluding the door could not have been opened accidentally, his body was later recovered near Boulogne. He was buried in an unmarked tomb near Evere.
Fast facts
- Born: 1877, Brussels
- Died: 4 July 1928, English Channel
- Nationality: Belgian
- Occupations: Banker, entrepreneur
- Honours: Legion of Honour, Companion of the Order of the Bath
- Key Business: Société Internationale d'Énergie Hydro-Électrique (SIDRO)
- Primary Residence: Villa Sacchino, Biarritz
Questions readers ask
Was foul play suspected in Loewenstein's death?
Speculation included murder by associates, suicide, or accidental death, but no theory was ever proven.
Why was his grave left unmarked?
Loewenstein was buried in the Misonne family tomb near Evere, but his name was never carved onto the slab covering his casket.
Achievements
- Companion of the Order of the Bath
- Legion of Honour
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