Arthur Robert MacDonnell facts for kids

Major-General Arthur Robert MacDonnell (1835-1900) was an important Anglo-Irish soldier. He served with the Royal Engineers, a special part of the British Army that builds things and helps with engineering. He was known for his work during the 1868 Expedition to Abyssinia (now Ethiopia) led by Sir Robert Napier. He was also a J.P., which means he helped keep law and order in his local area.

Who Was Arthur MacDonnell?

Early Life and Training

Arthur Robert MacDonnell was born in Dalkey, a town in County Dublin, Ireland, in 1835. He was the youngest son of Richard MacDonnell, who was a very important person at Trinity College, Dublin. He was the Provost, which is like the head of the college.

Arthur went to the Royal Military Academy, Woolwich, a famous school for training army officers. After finishing his studies there, he officially joined the Royal Engineers in 1854.

A Soldier's Career

Arthur MacDonnell first served in India. Later, in 1868, he joined the Abyssinian Expedition. This was a military mission led by Sir Robert Napier. During this expedition, Arthur was promoted to the rank of Brevet Major. This was a special promotion that recognized his good service.

The Abyssinian Expedition

Major MacDonnell was in charge of four companies (groups) of soldiers from the Bombay Sappers. These were skilled engineers and soldiers. He took part in two important battles during the expedition: the Battle of Aroghee and the Battle of Magdala.

At the capture of Magdala, he worked alongside Harry Prendergast V.C., who led the Madras Sappers. After the expedition, Major MacDonnell was officially mentioned in special reports. These reports praised him for "having rendered valuable and important services." This meant his work was very helpful and made a big difference.

Retirement

In 1884, Arthur MacDonnell retired from the army. He had reached the high rank of Major-General.

Later Life and Family

Major-General MacDonnell was married twice. His first wife was Araminta Preston. His second wife was Florence, who was the daughter of Sir Henry Nightingale. Arthur MacDonnell passed away at his home near Nairn in 1900. He was still serving as a Justice of the Peace there.

Arthur had several brothers who also served in the military. His brother, Captain Frederick MacDonnell (1832-1858), was a brave soldier in the Punjab Cavalry. He fought in many battles but was sadly killed during the Indian Mutiny. Another older brother, Major Charles MacDonnell (1823-1853), was a soldier in the 29th (Worcestershire) Regiment of Foot. He was killed in action at the Battle of Sobraon. His other brother was Sir Richard Graves MacDonnell, who became a colonial governor.