Francis North, 4th Earl of Guilford facts for kids

A painting of Francis North, 4th Earl of Guilford.

Francis North, 4th Earl of Guilford (born December 25, 1761 – died January 11, 1817) was an important person in British history. He held a noble title as an Earl, served as an Army officer, and was also a playwright, meaning he wrote plays.

Before he became the 4th Earl of Guilford in 1802, people knew him as The Honourable Francis North. He was a member of a well-known family in Britain.

Early Life and Military Career

Francis North was the second son of Frederick North, 2nd Earl of Guilford, who was a very important figure in British politics. Francis began his military career at a young age.

Joining the Army

In 1777, when he was just 15, Francis joined the 58th (Rutlandshire) Regiment of Foot as an ensign. This was his first step into the military world. He quickly moved between different regiments, gaining experience.

Rising Through the Ranks

By 1778, he became a cornet in the 2nd Dragoons. Soon after, he was promoted to lieutenant in the 2nd Dragoon Guards. In 1780, he became a captain in the 96th Regiment of Foot. These promotions showed his dedication to his military service.

Special Appointments

Captain North also served in special roles. In 1780, he became an aide-de-camp to Frederick Howard, 5th Earl of Carlisle. An aide-de-camp is like a personal assistant to a high-ranking officer. Carlisle was the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, a very important leader in Ireland at the time.

In 1781, Francis North moved to the 49th Regiment of Foot. By 1783, he was promoted to major in the 83rd Regiment of Foot. However, this regiment was later disbanded.

Life as a Playwright and Later Roles

Besides his military career, Francis North had a talent for writing. He was known for his creative work as a playwright.

Successful Playwright

Francis North wrote a play called The Kentish Baron. This play was performed at the famous Haymarket Theatre in London in 1791. It was very successful and well-received by audiences.

Further Military and Civil Duties

His military career continued to advance. In 1794, he was promoted to lieutenant-colonel. He also took on important civil duties related to castles. In 1795, he became the lieutenant of Dover Castle. Later, in 1799, he was appointed captain of Deal Castle.

In 1802, Francis North inherited the title of Earl of Guilford after his elder brother, George North, 3rd Earl of Guilford, passed away. In 1803, he was also appointed a deputy lieutenant of Kent, which meant he helped the main representative of the King in that county.

Family and Legacy

Francis North married Maria Boycott on July 19, 1810. They did not have any children together.

He passed away in 1817 in Pisa, Italy. After his death, his brother, Frederick North, 5th Earl of Guilford, inherited the noble title and became the next Earl of Guilford. Francis North is remembered for his service in the military and his contributions to the theatre as a playwright.