Charles Hamilton, 8th Earl of Haddington facts for kids
Charles Hamilton, 8th Earl of Haddington (born July 5, 1753 – died March 17, 1828), was an important Scottish nobleman. He held several key positions during his life.
Life and Public Service
Charles Hamilton was the oldest son of Thomas Hamilton, the 7th Earl of Haddington, and Mary Lloyd. When his father passed away, Charles became the 8th Earl of Haddington.
He was chosen to be a Representative peer from 1807 to 1812. This meant he was one of the nobles who represented Scotland in the British Parliament. He also served as the Lord Lieutenant of Haddingtonshire from 1804 to 1823. This role was like being the King's main representative in his home county.
Lord Haddington was also the traditional keeper of Holyrood Park in Edinburgh. This park is a large, beautiful area near the royal palace. He caused some arguments when he stopped a group called the Aesculapian Club from making new paths and planting more trees in the park.
He caused more public upset when he opened a stone quarry on Salisbury Crags, which are famous hills in Holyrood Park. He used the stones from this quarry to pave streets in London. People were very unhappy about this. Because of the public's strong reaction, the House of Lords later took away his son's traditional right to be the Keeper of the King's Park in 1831. However, his son, Thomas Hamilton, the 9th Earl, received a large payment of £40,000 as a result. This amount would be worth about £4.5 million today!
Lord Haddington passed away on March 17, 1828.
Family Life
Lord Haddington married Lady Sophia Hope on April 30, 1779. Lady Sophia was the daughter of John Hope, the 2nd Earl of Hopetoun. They had one son together:
| Peerage of Scotland | ||
|---|---|---|
| Preceded by Thomas Hamilton |
Earl of Haddington 1794–1828 |
Succeeded by Thomas Hamilton |
