Henry Chilton Facts for Kids

Henry Chilton in 1922

Sir Henry Getty Chilton (born October 15, 1877 – died November 20, 1954) was an important British diplomat. He served as a minister to the Vatican and later as an ambassador to several countries, including Chile, Argentina, and Spain during the difficult time of the Spanish Civil War.

Sir Henry Chilton's Career
Sir Henry Chilton's Family
Honours and Awards
Diplomatic Roles Held
See also

Sir Henry Chilton's Career

Henry Chilton went to Wellington College. In 1902, he joined the Diplomatic Service. This is a group of people who represent their country in other nations. He started as an attaché, which is a junior diplomat.

He worked in many cities around the world, like Vienna, Copenhagen, The Hague, Brussels, Berlin, and Washington, DC. In 1920, he became a Counsellor of Embassy in Rio de Janeiro, and then in Washington, DC, in 1921.

Serving as a Minister and Ambassador

In 1924, Henry Chilton became a Minister to the United States. From 1928 to 1930, he was the British envoy (another word for a diplomat) to the Vatican. After that, he was promoted to ambassador. An ambassador is the highest-ranking diplomat representing their country.

He served as ambassador in Chile from 1930 to 1933. Then he went to Argentina from 1933 to 1935. His last ambassador role was in Spain from 1935 to 1939.

During the Spanish Civil War

The Spanish Civil War began in 1936. Many embassies, including Britain's, moved from Madrid to Hendaye, France. This town was right on the border with Spain. Sir Henry Chilton stayed in Hendaye. He left his role in December 1937 before officially retiring.

The Times newspaper said his job was "exacting" and "delicate." This means it was very demanding and tricky. They also said he showed great politeness and dedication to his work. Geoffrey Thompson took over as the main diplomat for a while. Sir Henry Chilton returned to Hendaye briefly in May 1939 to collect his things. Sir Maurice Peterson became the new ambassador later that year.

Work During World War II

During the Second World War, Sir Henry Chilton continued to serve his country. He worked for the Ministry of Economic Warfare. This ministry helped manage resources during the war. He also worked for the Ministry of Information. This group shared news and information.

From 1940 to 1941, he traveled with Lord Willingdon on a trade mission to South America. He also joined the Home Guard in the UK. The Home Guard was a defense organization made of volunteers.

Sir Henry Chilton's Family

Henry Chilton was born on October 15, 1877. His birthplace was West Clandon, in Surrey, England. His parents were Caroline and Alfred R.T. Chilton.

In 1906, he married Katherine. Her father, Thomas J. O'Brien, was the US ambassador to Denmark. Henry and Katherine had two daughters. Katherine passed away in 1959.

Honours and Awards

Sir Henry Chilton received several important honours for his service.

In 1921, he was made a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG).
In 1930, he was knighted as a Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG). This meant he could use "Sir" before his name.
In 1934, he was promoted to Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Michael and St George (GCMG). This is a very high honour.

Diplomatic Roles Held

Henry Chilton facts for kids

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