Alexander Douglas-Hamilton, 16th Duke of Hamilton facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Duke of Hamilton
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Hamilton in 2012
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| Duke of Hamilton | |
| Tenure | 5 June 2010–present |
| Predecessor | Angus Douglas-Hamilton |
| Born | Alexander Douglas Douglas-Hamilton 31 March 1978 Edinburgh, Scotland |
| Noble family | Douglas-Hamilton |
| Spouse(s) |
Sophie Rutherford
(m. 2011) |
| Issue | 3 |
| Father | Angus Douglas-Hamilton, 15th Duke of Hamilton |
| Mother | Sarah Jane Scott |
Alexander Douglas Douglas-Hamilton, 16th Duke of Hamilton, 13th Duke of Brandon (born 31 March 1978) is a Scottish nobleman. He holds the highest rank among all nobles in Scotland. Before becoming Duke in 2010, he was known as the Marquess of Douglas and Clydesdale.
Early Life and Education
Alexander Douglas Douglas-Hamilton was born in Edinburgh, Scotland. His father was Angus Douglas-Hamilton, 15th Duke of Hamilton. His mother was Sarah Scott.
He attended two schools in Scotland. First, he studied at Keil School in Dumbarton. Later, he went to Gordonstoun, a well-known school in Scotland.
Becoming a Duke
When his father passed away on 5 June 2010, Alexander inherited important titles. He became the 16th Duke of Hamilton. This is a title in the Peerage of Scotland, which is a system of noble ranks. He also became the 13th Duke of Brandon. This title is part of the Peerage of Great Britain.
He also received several other Scottish noble titles. These include Marquess of Douglas and Marquess of Clydesdale. He also became Earl of Angus, Earl of Lanark, and Earl of Arran and Cambridge. Other titles include Lord Abernethy and Jedburgh Forest, Lord Machanshyre and Polmont, and Lord Aven and Innerdale. He also inherited the Barony of Dutton.
Special Roles and Duties
The Duke of Hamilton has some very old and special jobs. He is the Hereditary Keeper of the Palace of Holyroodhouse. This means his family has traditionally looked after the Queen's official residence in Scotland.
He is also the Hereditary Bearer of the Crown of Scotland. This is a very important ceremonial role. In this duty, he walks right in front of the monarch during the "Riding of Parliament." This is an ancient procession.
In 2022, he performed a significant duty. As the Hereditary Bearer of the Crown of Scotland, he placed the crown on the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II. This happened during a special service in St Giles' Cathedral in Edinburgh.
The main home for the Dukes of Hamilton is Lennoxlove House. It is located east of Edinburgh. Their former home, Hamilton Palace, was south of Glasgow but has since been taken down.
Family Life
On 7 May 2011, Alexander Douglas Douglas-Hamilton married Sophie Ann Rutherford. She was born on 8 December 1976. Their wedding took place in Edinburgh. The Duke and Duchess of Hamilton have three sons together.
