George Townshend, 3rd Marquess Townshend facts for kids
George Ferrars Townshend, 3rd Marquess Townshend (born 13 December 1778 – died 31 December 1855) was an important British nobleman. He held several titles during his life. These included Lord Chartley and Earl of Leicester before he became the 3rd Marquess Townshend. His marriage ended quickly, and he was not included in his father's will. He later moved to another country and passed away in Genoa, which was part of the Kingdom of Sardinia at the time. He did not have any children.
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Early Life and Family Background
George Townshend was born on 13 December 1778. He was the older son of George Townshend, 17th Baron Ferrers of Chartley and 8th Baron Compton. His mother was Charlotte Ellerker.
His father was the eldest son of George Townshend, 4th Viscount Townshend. George's father also inherited two special titles called "baronies by writ" from his own mother, who died in 1770.
Education and Learning
Young George Townshend received a good education. He attended Eton College, which is a famous school. After that, he went to Trinity College, Cambridge, a well-known university.
Understanding His Noble Titles
George Townshend held several important titles throughout his life. These titles changed as his family members gained or passed on their own titles.
Becoming Lord Chartley
In 1784, George's father was given the new title of Earl of Leicester. At this point, George began to use the title Lord Chartley. This was a "courtesy title," meaning it was used out of respect because he was his father's heir. The name "Chartley" came from one of his father's other titles, Lord Ferrers of Chartley.
From Lord Chartley to Earl of Leicester
In 1787, George's grandfather became the Marquess Townshend. Later, in 1807, George's father inherited this important Marquess title. When this happened, George started using a more senior courtesy title: Earl of Leicester.
Inheriting the Marquessate
Finally, in 1811, George's father passed away. George then officially became the 3rd Marquess Townshend. This was his highest title.
Later Life and Legacy
George Townshend passed away in Genoa in December 1855. He was 77 years old. He did not have any children of his own.
His only brother, Lord Charles Townshend, had died before him and also had no sons. Because George had no direct heirs, some of his titles ended. The Earldom of Leicester became "extinct," meaning it no longer existed.
The Baronies of Ferrers of Chartley and Compton went into "abeyance." This means the titles were put on hold because there was no clear single heir. They remain in abeyance today between his nephew (his middle sister's son) and his youngest sister.
The Marquessate of Townshend, however, continued. George was succeeded by his first cousin, Rear Admiral John Townshend, who became the 4th Marquess.
