Charles Godfrey McAlester facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles Godfrey McAlester
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| Born | 13 January 1765 |
| Died | 7 October 1847 |
Charles Godfrey McAlester (born 13 January 1765, died 7 October 1847) was an important Scottish leader. He was a Lieutenant Colonel in the military and the Chief of Clan MacAlister. Being a Clan Chief meant he was the main leader of his family group, which was a big responsibility in Scotland. He was the son of Angus MacAlister and Jane MacDonald.
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Early Life
Charles Godfrey McAlester was born on January 13, 1765. He was the only son of Angus MacAlister of Loup and Jane MacDonald. His mother, Jane, was the daughter of John MacDonald of Ardnacroish.
A Leader in Scotland
Charles became the head of his family's estates in 1796, after his father passed away. In 1805, he also took on the name Somerville. This meant he became known as Charles Godfrey Somerville McAlester of Loup and Kennox.
As a respected leader, Colonel Charles McAlester held several important positions. He was the Laird (a Scottish word for a landowner or lord) of Loup and Kennox. He also served as a Deputy Lieutenant of Ayrshire, which meant he helped represent the King or Queen in his local area. He was also a Justice of the Peace, helping to keep law and order.
Additionally, he was the leader, or Commandant, of the first regiment of the Ayrshire Local Militia. This was a group of local citizens who trained to defend their area. When this military group was no longer needed, Colonel McAlester kept their banners and musical instruments. He said he would only give them up if someone else had a better claim to them.
Family Life
On March 28, 1792, Charles McAlester married Janet Somerville of Kennox. Janet was the daughter of William Somerville and Lilian Porterfield. Charles and Janet had four children together:
- Charles Somerville MacAlester
- James McAlester of Chapeltown
- Williamina McAlester
- Jane McAlester
Death
Charles Godfrey McAlester passed away on October 7, 1847. After his death, his son, Charles, became the new Chief of Clan MacAlister.
