Angus MacFarlane-Grieve facts for kids

Alexander Angus MacFarlane-Grieve (11 May 1891 – 2 August 1970) was a smart British man who did many things. He was a mathematician (someone who studies numbers), a rower (someone who rows boats), and a brave officer in the British Army. He fought in World War I with the Highland Light Infantry. Later, he became the leader, called "Master," of University College, Durham from 1939 to 1954. He also led Hatfield College, Durham from 1940 to 1949.

Growing Up and School

Angus MacFarlane-Grieve was born on May 11, 1891. He went to The Perse School, which was a private school in Cambridge, England. After that, he studied mathematics at University College, Durham. He earned his first university degree, a Bachelor of Arts (BA), in 1913.

While at university, he loved rowing. He rowed for his college team, the University College Boat Club, and also for the main university team, the Durham University Boat Club. In his last year, from 1912 to 1913, he was the leader (President) of the university rowing club.

Military Service

Before joining the army, MacFarlane-Grieve was part of the Officer Training Corps at university. This group trains students to become army officers. On August 15, 1914, he officially joined the 4th Battalion of The Highland Light Infantry as a young officer called a "second lieutenant."

In December 1914, his position as an officer was made permanent. In July 1915, he went to a special training school in Scotland to learn about military communications. He then became one of the officers in charge of the 4th Battalion's signal section, which handled messages. By June 1917, he had been promoted to captain. By the end of World War I, he held the temporary rank of lieutenant colonel.

On August 4, 1923, he left the active army but stayed in the "Regular Army Reserve of Officers." He was promoted to major. Even after leaving the active army, he continued to help train young officers at Durham University as part of the Officer Training Corps.

University Career

In 1923, after his time in the army, MacFarlane-Grieve went back to Durham University. He became a teacher, giving lessons on military topics. From 1923 to 1939, he was also the "Bursar" of University College, Durham. A Bursar is like a manager who handles the money and business side of the college.

In 1939, when he was 47, he became the "Master" of University College. This meant he was the main leader of the college. He was the first Master of that college who was not a priest or religious leader.

During World War II, fewer students were attending university. So, in 1940, he also became the temporary Master of Hatfield College, Durham. He stopped being the Master of Hatfield College in 1949. From 1948 to 1953, he was the "Sub-Warden" of the Durham Colleges. This meant he was the deputy leader for all the colleges at Durham University, helping the main leader, the Vice-Chancellor and Warden.

In 1953, MacFarlane-Grieve received his family's estate (a large property) in Scotland. Because of this, he decided to retire early from Durham University.

Awards and Recognition

Angus MacFarlane-Grieve received several important awards for his service:

• In May 1917, the King of Italy gave him the Silver Medal of Military Valor. This was for his excellent service during the war.
• In June 1917, he received the Military Cross (MC) from the British. This award is given for brave actions in battle.
• In February 1932, he was given the Efficiency Decoration (TD) for his many years of service.