Godfrey Morgan, 1st Viscount Tredegar facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Godfrey Morgan
1st Viscount Tredegar
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1910 painting of Lord Tredegar by George Frederick Harris
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| Born | 28 April 1831 |
| Died | 11 March 1913 (aged 81) |
| Nationality | British |
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Godfrey Charles Morgan (born April 28, 1831 – died March 11, 1913) was an important Welsh figure. He was a brave officer in the British Army and later became a member of the British Parliament. Godfrey was born at Ruperra Castle in Wales. His parents were Charles Morgan, 1st Baron Tredegar and Rosamund Morgan. He went to a famous school called Eton before joining the army in 1853.
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A Brave Soldier in the Crimean War
In 1854, when Godfrey was 22, the Crimean War began. He was a captain in the 17th Lancers regiment. He fought in important battles like the Battle of Alma.
Surviving the Charge of the Light Brigade
On October 25, 1854, Captain Morgan was part of the famous Charge of the Light Brigade. This was a very dangerous cavalry charge during the Battle of Balaclava. Many soldiers were lost, but Godfrey Morgan survived this brave, yet risky, attack.
His horse, named 'Sir Briggs', also survived the charge. Sir Briggs lived a long life at Godfrey's home, Tredegar House in Newport, Wales. He lived until he was 28 years old. Sir Briggs was buried in the Cedar Garden at Tredegar House, where his monument can still be seen today.
"Godfrey the Good" and His Gifts
After his time in the army, Godfrey Morgan became known for his kindness. He was a great supporter of the people of Newport. He followed in the footsteps of his family, who had also been generous.
Donating Land for Public Use
Godfrey gave large areas of land to the Newport Corporation. These gifts were for the public to enjoy. Some of the places he donated land for include Belle Vue Park, the Royal Gwent Hospital, and the Newport Athletics Grounds. Because of his generosity, local people called him "Godfrey the Good."
He also served as the High Sheriff of Monmouthshire in 1858. In 1875, he became the 2nd Baron Tredegar after his father passed away.
Later Life and Honors
In May 1902, Godfrey Morgan bought the lordships of the manor of Newport and Caerleon. This included the right to choose a member for the Newport Harbour Commission.
Becoming Viscount Tredegar
On December 28, 1905, he was given a special title: Viscount Tredegar. This made him a very important person. In 1909, he became the first Freeman of Newport. This is a special honor given to people who have done a lot for the city. He also received the Freedom of the City of Cardiff on October 25, 1909.
His Legacy
Godfrey Morgan passed away on March 11, 1913, at the age of 81. He was buried at Bassaleg Parish Church. He never married, so his titles and the Tredegar estate went to his nephew, Courtenay Morgan.
A statue of Viscount Tredegar was put up in 1909 in Gorsedd Gardens, Cathays Park, Cardiff. The famous sculptor Sir William Goscombe John created this statue.
Images for kids
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Inscription to Godfrey Morgan, the 1st Viscount Tredegar
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Tredegar House
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Sculpture in Cardiff by Sir William Goscombe John
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