Arthur Erskine facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
GCVO DSO
Arthur Edward Erskine
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| Born | 1 September 1881 |
| Died | 24 July 1963 (aged 81) |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
 British Army |
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| Rank | Colonel |
| Battles/wars | First World War |
| Alma mater | Royal Military Academy, Woolwich |
Sir Arthur Edward Erskine was a British soldier and an important helper to the King. He was born on September 1, 1881, and passed away on July 24, 1963. He held a special job called Crown Equerry in the Royal Household of the King of the United Kingdom from 1924 to 1941. This meant he was in charge of the King's horses and carriages, and helped with many royal events.
Early Life and School
Arthur Edward Erskine came from a family called Clan Erskine. His father, Sir David Erskine, had an important job in the British Parliament. He was the Serjeant-at-Arms of the House of Commons. This role involves keeping order and carrying a special mace during parliamentary sessions.
Arthur went to a school called Charterhouse. After that, he studied at the Royal Military Academy in Woolwich. This academy trains people to become officers in the army.
Military Career and Royal Service
Arthur Erskine became a soldier and fought in the First World War. During the war, his bravery and good work were noticed. He was mentioned in official reports, which is called being "mentioned in dispatches". He also received an award called the DSO in 1916. This award is given to officers for outstanding leadership during battle.
After the war, from 1919 to 1924, he worked as an Equerry for King George V. An Equerry is an officer who helps the King with his daily duties and public appearances.
He served in the Royal Artillery, which is the part of the army that uses cannons and other large guns. In 1924, he became the Crown Equerry. This was a very important role in the Royal Household. He was responsible for the King's horses, carriages, and cars. He also helped organize royal ceremonies and events.
After he retired from this main role in 1941, he continued to help the Royal Family as an Extra Equerry until he passed away. He also had other important jobs. From 1939 to 1963, he was the Secretary and Registrar of the Order of Merit. This is a special award given by the King or Queen for great achievements in arts, learning, science, or public service. He also helped manage the famous Ascot horse races from 1941 to 1946.
He received several honors from the King. He was made a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO) in 1926. This honor is given for personal service to the Monarch. He was later promoted to Knight Commander (KCVO) in 1931 and then to Knight Grand Cross (GCVO) in 1935. Being a Knight Grand Cross meant he could use "Sir" before his name.
Family Life
In 1921, Arthur Erskine married Rosemary Freda. Her father was a high-ranking officer in the army. Arthur and Rosemary had three sons. One of their sons, Angus Erskine, became a famous explorer who traveled to the North and South Poles.
Their oldest son, Donald Seymour Erskine, married Catherine Annandale McLelland in 1953. They had five children together. One of their children, James Malcolm Kenneth Erskine, followed in his grandfather's footsteps and became an officer in the Black Watch regiment of the British Army.
Sir Arthur Edward Erskine passed away in July 1963 when he was 81 years old. His wife, Lady Erskine, passed away in January 1970.
