Algernon Capell, 2nd Earl of Essex facts for kids

A portrait of Lord Essex by Godfrey Kneller

Portrait of Capell as a boy by a follower of Willem Wissing

A portrait of Lady Mary Capell, Countess of Essex c. 1698 from the studio of Godfrey Kneller

Algernon Capell, 2nd Earl of Essex (born 28 December 1670, died 10 January 1710) was an important English nobleman. He was also a military officer and worked for the royal family. The letters "PC" after his name mean he was a member of the Privy Council. This was a group of trusted advisors to the King or Queen.

Algernon's Family Background

Algernon Capell was born into a very important family. His father was Arthur Capell, 1st Earl of Essex. His mother was Elizabeth Percy. She was the daughter of another powerful nobleman, Algernon Percy, 10th Earl of Northumberland. This meant Algernon came from two well-known families in England.

His Life and Work

Algernon Capell had several important jobs during his life. He served King William III for many years.

Working for the King

From 1691 to 1702, Algernon was a Gentleman of the Bedchamber. This was a special role where he helped the King directly. He was a close attendant and advisor to King William III.

Military Roles

Algernon was also a military man. In 1697, he became a Colonel in the Hertfordshire Militia. This was a local army group. He also led the 4th Dragoons, a type of cavalry unit, from 1693 until his death in 1710.

Royal Advisor

In 1708, Queen Anne made him a Privy Counsellor. This meant he was part of the Queen's main group of advisors. They helped her make important decisions for the country.

Algernon's Marriage and Children

Algernon Capell married Mary Bentinck on 28 February 1692. Mary was the daughter of William Bentinck, 1st Earl of Portland. Together, Algernon and Mary had three children.

His Son and Heir

• William Capell, 3rd Earl of Essex (1697–1743) was their oldest child. He became the next Earl of Essex. William married two times.
  • His first wife was Lady Jane Hyde. They had two daughters together.
  • His second wife was Lady Elizabeth Russell. They also had children, including William Capell, 4th Earl of Essex.

His Daughters

• Lady Mary Capel (died 12 November 1762) was their first daughter. She married Alan Brodrick, 2nd Viscount Midleton. They had children together.
• Lady Elizabeth Capell was their second daughter. She married twice.
  • Her first husband was Samuel Molyneux. They did not have any children.
  • Her second husband was Nathaniel St. André. They also did not have any children.