George Hamilton, 3rd Earl of Abercorn facts for kids

George Hamilton was the 3rd Earl of Abercorn. He was born around 1636 and passed away before 1683. He never married. George died in Padua, Italy, while traveling to Rome. After his death, his cousin, Claud Hamilton, became the next Earl.

Early Life and Family

George Hamilton was born around 1636, likely in Paisley, Scotland. He was the third son of James Hamilton, who was the 2nd Earl of Abercorn, and his wife Katherine Clifton.

George's mother was also known as the Dowager Duchess of Lennox from a previous marriage. She held the title of Baroness Clifton of Leighton Bromswold in her own right. Both of George's parents were Catholic. They had married in 1627.

George had two older brothers. Sadly, both of them died before their father. This meant that George became the only surviving son and the heir to his father's title.

Important Events in George's Youth

On September 17, 1637, George's mother passed away in Scotland. He was only about one year old at the time. She was buried without a big ceremony because she was Catholic.

In 1649, his father faced difficulties with the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland. He was asked to leave the kingdom because he was Catholic. Later, in 1652, his father sold their family home in Paisley.

Becoming the Earl

As mentioned, George's two older brothers died before their father. This meant that George was the only son left. When his father passed away around 1670, George became the 3rd Earl of Abercorn.

Death and Succession

Lord Abercorn died in his forties, around 1680. He was unmarried and had no children. He passed away in Padua, Italy, while on a journey to Rome.

Since George had no direct heirs, the title of Earl of Abercorn passed to a different branch of the family. This was the family of the Barons Hamilton of Strabane. They were related through George's uncle, Claud. Claud's grandson, Claud Hamilton, became the 4th Earl of Abercorn.