Alexander Hamilton, 10th Lord Belhaven and Stenton facts for kids

Alexander Charles Hamilton, known as the 10th Lord Belhaven and Stenton, was an important Scottish figure. Born on July 3, 1840, he lived until October 31, 1920. He was a brave soldier and also served as a Scottish representative peer. This meant he represented Scotland's nobility in the British Parliament. He was also a member of the Liberal Unionist political party.

Early life and family connections

Alexander Charles Hamilton was born in Scotland on July 3, 1840. His father was William Hamilton, a well-known geologist. His father also served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Newport, Isle of Wight. Alexander's mother was Margaret Frances Florence Dillon. Her father was Henry Dillon, 13th Viscount Dillon, a respected nobleman. Alexander had a brother named Archibald William Hamilton. Archibald's son, Robert, would later become the 11th Lord Belhaven and Stenton. Alexander's grandfather, William Richard Hamilton, held an important role in the government's Foreign Office.

A distinguished career in service

Alexander Charles Hamilton had a long and impressive career. He became a Colonel in the Royal Engineers, a special part of the British Army. In 1879, he bravely fought in the Zulu War. This was a conflict in Southern Africa.

Later, from 1888 to 1902, he led the Surrey Volunteer Infantry Brigade as a Brigadier. For his dedicated service, he received the Territorial Decoration. He was also recognized for his interest in geography, becoming a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society.

In 1893, Alexander became the 10th Lord Belhaven and Stenton. This was a noble title passed down through his family. The House of Lords, a part of the British Parliament, officially confirmed his title in 1894. He also took on important local roles. He served as a Justice of the Peace, helping to maintain law and order. He was also a Deputy Lieutenant for Lanarkshire, assisting the Lord-Lieutenant in local duties. From 1900 until his passing in 1920, he served as a Scottish representative peer. This meant he represented Scottish nobles in the Parliament of the United Kingdom.

Family life and legacy

On July 7, 1880, Alexander Charles Hamilton married Georgiana Katharine Richmond. They had one son together:

• Ralph Gerard Alexander Hamilton, known as the Master of Belhaven. He was born in 1883. Sadly, Ralph passed away in 1918 during the Battle of Amiens, a major battle in World War I. He had married Lady Grizel Winifred Louisa Cochrane.

Lord Belhaven and Stenton passed away at his home, Wishaw House, on October 31, 1920. Because his son Ralph had passed away before him and did not have children, the title of Lord Belhaven and Stenton went to his nephew, Robert. Robert later changed his name to Udny-Hamilton in 1934. Lord Belhaven's wife, Georgiana, passed away in 1932.