George Harcourt, 2nd Earl Harcourt facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Earl Harcourt
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Portrait of George, with his wife Elizabeth and brother William, by Joshua Reynolds, 1780
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| Member of Parliament for St Albans | |
| In office 1761–1768 Serving with James West
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| Preceded by | Hon. James Grimston James West |
| Succeeded by | Richard Sutton John Radcliffe |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
George Simon Harcourt
1 August 1736 |
| Died | 20 April 1809 (aged 72) |
| Spouses |
Elizabeth Venables-Vernon
(after 1765) |
| Parents | Simon Harcourt, 1st Earl Harcourt Rebecca Le Baas |
| Education | Westminster School |
George Simon Harcourt, the 2nd Earl Harcourt (born August 1, 1736 – died April 20, 1809), was an important English figure. Before he became Earl Harcourt in 1777, he was known as Viscount Nuneham. He was a politician, someone who supported artists, and a keen gardener.
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Early Life and Education
George Simon Harcourt was the oldest son of Simon Harcourt, 1st Earl Harcourt and his wife, Rebecca Le Baas. His younger brother was named William Harcourt.
He went to Westminster School for two years. During this time, he also took art lessons from famous teachers like Alexander Cozens.
Travels and Political Career
In 1754, Harcourt began a "Grand Tour" of Europe. He traveled through Germany and Italy. He was with George Bussy Villiers and their tutor, William Whitehead. This trip lasted until 1756.
In 1761, Harcourt was elected to Parliament. He represented the area of St Albans. He served as a Member of Parliament until 1767. Records show he did not speak much in the House of Commons.
Harcourt supported John Wilkes, a well-known politician. He was also a friend of the writer Catherine Macaulay. He was against the war with the American colonies.
In 1777, he joined the House of Lords. This happened after his father's tragic death. His father accidentally drowned in a well at their home, Nuneham House, while trying to save his dog.
Supporting the Arts and Gardening
George Harcourt was a great supporter of the arts. He helped many artists and writers.
In 1772, he started to redesign the gardens at Nuneham Courtenay. He worked with William Mason on this project. Later, in 1777, he began improving the park.
From 1779, a famous landscape architect, Capability Brown, advised him on the park and gardens. Paul Sandby, a well-known artist, helped with the inside of the house. Harcourt also hired Thomas Pitt to create a monument for his father. He even set up a poetry competition.
In 1790, Harcourt was given an important job. He became the Master of the Horse to Queen Charlotte. He held this position until he died.
Family Life
In 1765, George Harcourt married Elizabeth. She was the daughter of George Venables-Vernon, 1st Baron Vernon. Elizabeth was also his cousin.
Lord Harcourt passed away on April 20, 1809. His brother, William, became the next Earl. When William died in 1830, the title of Earl Harcourt ended.
