He was, in succession, a preacher of the doctrine of 'reforming optimism,’ a theatrical manager, the curator and proprietor of some 'model experimental gardens' near Holloway, and a promoter in Manchester of public-houses without intoxicating drinks.
For many years, Baume's mind was bent upon the establishment of a major educational institute, on a communistic basis.
During the Owenite socialist agitation his oratory, and power of devising astonishing placards and proclamations, made him a notable man.
His 'experimental gardens', as he called them, were almost opposite the present Pentonville Prison, and were known as the Frenchman's Island', about which he used to wander in the night-time with a pistol, to frighten off unwelcome visitors.
On his death, at Duke Street, Douglas, on 28 October 1875, all his property, including about £10,000, in addition to the value of the estates, was left in trust for philanthropic purposes in the Isle of Man.