Frederick Campbell (cricketer) facts for kids

Colonel Frederick Campbell (June 15, 1843 – September 13, 1926) was a Scottish first-class cricketer and a British Army officer. He was known for his excellent bowling skills in cricket and his long service in the military.

Frederick Campbell: Cricketer and Soldier

Frederick Campbell was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, on June 15, 1843. His father was Sir John Campbell, of Airds. Frederick grew up to have a fascinating life, combining a love for cricket with a career in the army.

Early Life and Cricket Career

Frederick Campbell joined the Royal Artillery as a lieutenant in December 1861. He served in the New Zealand Wars from 1864 to 1866. After returning to England, he started playing first-class cricket. This is the highest level of cricket played at the time.

He played his first big match for the Gentlemen of Marylebone Cricket Club in August 1867. He played against Kent. Later, he played three more first-class matches for the main Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) team. He played against Surrey twice in 1868 and once against Hampshire in 1869.

Frederick Campbell was especially good at bowling. In his four first-class matches, he took 13 wickets. A "wicket" is when a bowler gets a batter out. His best performance was taking 6 wickets for only 37 runs against Kent in his very first match. He was also a member of a famous cricket club called I Zingari. He was good friends with the legendary cricketer W. G. Grace.

Military Service and Public Life

In July 1869, Campbell left the Royal Artillery to work in his family's wine business. However, he continued his military service. He joined the Volunteer Force, which was a group of part-time soldiers. He became an honorary colonel in the 1st Argyll and Bute Artillery Volunteers.

For his dedicated service as a volunteer, he received a special award called the Companion of the Order of the Bath in 1902. He also received the Volunteer Officers' Decoration.

Campbell lived in Dulwich, England, for almost 44 years. He was active in local politics, meaning he helped make decisions for his community. He was a member of the Conservative Party. He served on the London County Council from 1895 to 1901. This council helped manage London. After the First World War, he joined the League of Nations Union. This group worked for peace around the world.

He also had other important roles. He was a governor of St Dunstan's College. He also served as a justice of the peace for Penge starting in 1912. A justice of the peace is a person who helps keep law and order in their local area.

Family Life

Frederick Campbell married Emilie Guillaumine Maclaine in January 1869. She was the daughter of Donald Maclaine, who was the chief of Clan Maclaine of Lochbuie. They had fifteen children together!

Some of their children became very notable. Their son Sir Edward Campbell became a politician. Another son, Ian Campbell, also became a cricketer. Two of their sons, Gordon Campbell and James Campbell, became admirals in the Royal Navy. Gordon Campbell was especially famous because he received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest military award for bravery.

Frederick Campbell passed away in Sydenham Hill in September 1926. His grandson, Lorne MacLaine Campbell, also received the Victoria Cross during the Second World War.