George Wathen (actor) facts for kids
George Wathen (1762–1849) was an English actor, stage manager, and theatre owner. He performed in London during the late 1700s and early 1800s. He was also the father of the writer and poet Marianne Baillie.
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George Wathen's Life and Career
George Wathen was born in London on March 2, 1762. His father, Samuel Wathen, was a well-known doctor in London. George's mother was Elizabeth Malthus.
Early Military Service
George Wathen joined the army as a junior officer. He bravely served during the Siege of Gibraltar in 1782. After that, he was stationed in Jamaica. He left the military around 1789. At that time, he held the rank of brevet Major. This means he was recognized as a Major, but the promotion was not yet official.
Becoming a Stage Star
After leaving the army, George Wathen became a famous actor. He was also a singer and managed theatres. He often performed under the stage name 'Captain Wathen'. One of his early acting partners was the well-known Lord Barrymore.
Later Life and Honors
Because of his military background and his fame in theatre, George received a special honor. In 1841, he was named a Military Knight of Windsor. This meant he became an honorary bodyguard for the king. Around this time, he was known as 'Major Wathen'. George Wathen passed away on April 21, 1849. He was buried as Major Wathen at Windsor Castle.
George Wathen's Family
In 1787, George Wathen married Marianne Norford. She was the daughter of Dr. William Norford from Bury St Edmunds. George and Marianne had three children together.
Marianne Wathen Baillie
- Marianne Wathen was born in 1788 in Jamaica. She later married Alexander Baillie. As Marianne Baillie, she became a writer. She wrote four books, including two collections of poems. She also wrote about her travels in Europe.
George Samuel Wathen
- George Samuel Wathen was born in 1790. It seems he passed away when he was young.
Augustus Wathen
- Augustus Wathen (1796-1844) was George's only son who lived to adulthood. He fought in the famous Battle of Waterloo. Later, he served in India.
- Augustus had a disagreement with his commanding officer. This led to a military trial in 1834. He was found not guilty, which was a big news story at the time. After the trial, he was promoted to Major. This sometimes caused confusion, as both he and his father were known as Major Wathen.
- Before serving in India, Augustus married Elizabeth Jane Leslie. She was the daughter of the Earl of Rothe. They lived in Shrub Hill, Surrey. Augustus died on May 3, 1843. He passed away before his father. He was buried in his wife's family burial place.
