George Murray, 6th Duke of Atholl facts for kids
George Augustus Frederick John Murray (born September 20, 1814 – died January 16, 1864) was a Scottish nobleman and a very important landowner. He was also a leader in the Freemason organization, which is a social and charitable group. He held the title of the 6th Duke of Atholl.
Life of George Murray
George Murray was born in London in 1814. His father was James Murray, who was the first Baron Glenlyon. George's grandfather was the 4th Duke of Atholl.
In 1837, George became Lord Glenlyon after his father passed away. This gave him a seat in the House of Lords, which is part of the British Parliament. He also served in the British Army as a lieutenant in the 2nd Dragoon Guards, a cavalry regiment. He left the army in 1840.
The Atholl Highlanders
As Lord Glenlyon, George brought back the Atholl Highlanders in 1839. This was his own personal bodyguard. In August of that year, he went to a special tournament in Ayrshire. He dressed as 'The Knight of the Gael' and brought his Highlanders with him.
In 1844, Queen Victoria visited Blair Castle, which was George's family home. The Atholl Highlanders acted as her guard. The Queen was so impressed with their appearance and discipline. She ordered that they be given official "colours" (flags). This made them an official military unit. Because of this, the Atholl Highlanders became the only legal private army in Europe!
In 1846, George became the 6th Duke of Atholl. He inherited the Atholl estates and noble titles from his uncle, the 5th Duke. In the same year, he became a Deputy Lieutenant for Perthshire, which meant he was a local official helping the Lord-Lieutenant. In 1853, he received a special honor when he was made a Knight of the Thistle. This is a very old and important award in Scotland.
In October 1854, George welcomed a guest named Charles Edward Stuart to Blair Castle.
He was also a very important leader in the Freemasons. He served as the Grand Master Mason of Scotland from 1843 to 1863. He was also the Grand Master of England from 1843 until he died in 1864.
Family Life
On October 29, 1839, George married Anne Home-Drummond. She was the daughter of Henry Home-Drummond.
George, the 6th Duke of Atholl, died in 1864 when he was 49 years old. His only child, John, took over his titles and estates.
A special fountain in Dunkeld is dedicated to his memory. It is called the Atholl Memorial Fountain.
Images for kids
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In Atholl Highlanders uniform, around 1855–60, by John MacLaren Barclay
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Atholl Memorial Fountain in Dunkeld
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Memorial in the ruins of St Bride's Kirk near Blair Castle
