Alexander Gordon, 4th Duke of Gordon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Duke of Gordon
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| Keeper of the Great Seal of Scotland (1794 to 1806, 1807 to 1827) | |
| Duke of Gordon | |
| Preceded by | Cosmo Gordon |
| Succeeded by | George Gordon |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 18 June 1743 Gordon Castle, Fochabers, Kingdom of Great Britain |
| Died | 17 June 1827 (aged 83) Berkeley Square, London, England |
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| Occupation | Nobleman |
Alexander Gordon, 4th Duke of Gordon (born 18 June 1743 – died 17 June 1827), was an important Scottish nobleman. He was known as the "Cock o' the North." This was a traditional nickname for the leader of the Clan Gordon.
Early Life and Titles
Alexander Gordon was born at Gordon Castle in Scotland on 18 June 1743. He was the oldest son of Cosmo Gordon, 3rd Duke of Gordon. His mother was Lady Catherine Gordon. Alexander went to school at Eton. He became the 4th Duke of Gordon in 1752. His younger brother was Lord George Gordon. Lord George was known for causing the Gordon riots in London.
In 1767, Alexander was chosen as a Scottish representative peer. This meant he could represent Scotland in the British Parliament. In 1775, he became a Knight of the Thistle. This is a special honor from the King. In 1784, he was given new titles. He became Baron Gordon of Huntley and Earl of Norwich.
Important Roles and Contributions
Alexander Gordon held several important positions. He was the Keeper of the Great Seal of Scotland from 1794 to 1806, and again from 1807 to 1827. This role involved approving important government documents. He was also the Chancellor of King's College, Aberdeen from 1793 to 1827. He was the Lord Lieutenant of Aberdeenshire until 1808.
He helped raise the 92nd (Gordon Highlanders) Regiment of Foot in 1794. This was a Scottish army regiment. He also helped create new villages. These included Fochabers, Tomintoul, and Portgordon. He is also famous for helping to develop the Gordon Setter dog breed. He was a big fan of Scottish music. He supported the composer William Marshall.
Marriage and Family
Duke Alexander first married Jane Maxwell on 23 October 1767. Jane was known for her beauty. Their marriage had some challenges. Jane was very active in society. The Duke preferred a quieter life at Gordon Castle.
The Duchess Jane is famous for helping to recruit soldiers for the Gordon Highlanders. She would put a King's shilling (a coin) between her teeth. This was a way to encourage men to join the army. She was also very good at arranging marriages for her children. Three of her five daughters married Dukes. One daughter married a Marquess.
Duchess Jane passed away on 14 April 1812. She was buried in Kinrara. After her death, Alexander married Jane Christie in July 1820. Jane Christie was from Fochabers. They had four children together before they married. After their marriage, Jane Christie lived in a townhouse in Fochabers. The Duke passed away on 17 June 1827. He was buried in Elgin Cathedral. His son, George Gordon, 5th Duke of Gordon, became the next Duke.
Children
The Duke had seven children with his first wife, Jane Maxwell:
- Lady Charlotte Gordon (1768–1842): She married Charles Lennox, 4th Duke of Richmond. She was famous for hosting the "Duchess of Richmond's Ball."
- George Gordon, 5th Duke of Gordon (1770–1836): He became the 5th Duke of Gordon.
- Lady Madelaine Gordon (1772–1847): She married Sir Robert Sinclair. Later, she married Charles Fysche Palmer.
- Lady Susan Gordon (1774–1828): She married William Montagu, 5th Duke of Manchester.
- Lady Louisa Gordon (1776–1850): She married Charles Cornwallis, 2nd Marquess Cornwallis.
- Lady Georgiana Gordon (1781–1853): She married John Russell, 6th Duke of Bedford.
- Lord Alexander Gordon (1785–1808): He was an officer in the British Army. He never married.
