Alexander Gordon, 2nd Duke of Gordon facts for kids
Alexander Gordon, 2nd Duke of Gordon (born around 1678, died 28 November 1728), was an important Scottish nobleman. Before he became Duke, he was known as the Earl of Enzie until 1684. From 1684 to 1716, he held the title of Marquess of Huntly. He was a supporter of the Jacobite cause.
Alexander Gordon was the son of George Gordon, 1st Duke of Gordon. His mother was Lady Elizabeth Howard. She was the daughter of Henry Howard, 6th Duke of Norfolk.
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Alexander Gordon and the Jacobites
Alexander Gordon was a Jacobite. This means he supported the return of the Stuart family to the throne of Great Britain. The Stuarts had lost the throne in 1688.
The 1715 Rising
He joined the Jacobite rising of 1715. This was a major rebellion to put the Stuart king back on the throne. Alexander Gordon led a large group of his own men. He had three hundred horsemen and two thousand foot soldiers.
He fought in the Battle of Sheriffmuir. This was a key battle during the rising. On 12 February 1716, he surrendered. This happened at Gordon Castle, his family home. He surrendered to John Gordon, 16th Earl of Sutherland.
Imprisonment and Pardon
After his surrender, Alexander Gordon was sent to prison. He was held in Edinburgh. However, he later received a pardon. This happened when his father passed away. On 7 December 1716, he inherited his father's titles. He then became the 2nd Duke of Gordon.
A Famous Nickname
Alexander Gordon is mentioned in a famous Jacobite song. It is a riddling song called Cam Ye o'er frae France. In the song, he is called "Cockalorum." This nickname comes from a traditional title. The head of the Clan Gordon was often called "Cock o' the North."
Family Life
Alexander Gordon married Lady Henrietta Mordaunt. She was born around 1688 and died in 1760. Her father was Charles Mordaunt, 3rd Earl of Peterborough. They were married before 13 February 1707. They had several children together.
Children of Alexander Gordon
- Elizabeth married Rev John Skelly.
- Catherine (1713–1791) married the 7th Earl of Wemyss.
- Anne (died 1786) married the 2nd Earl of Aberdeen.
- Cosmo George, 3rd Duke of Gordon (1721–1752). He became the 3rd Duke.
- Lewis Gordon (1724–1754).
- Charlotte Gordon invested in a millinery business in Edinburgh.
- General Lord Adam Gordon (1728–1801) married Jean Drummond.
- Lord Charles Gordon (1721–1780).
