Henry Fetherstonhaugh facts for kids

Sir Henry Fetherstonhaugh, known as Harry, was an English aristocrat born on December 22, 1754. He became the 2nd Baronet in his family. A baronet is a special title, like a knight, that can be passed down through the family.

Fetherstonhaugh as a boy, painted by Nathaniel Dance-Holland.

Uppark, Sir Harry's country home.

Early Life and Travels

Harry was the son of Matthew Fetherstonhaugh, 1st Baronet. He grew up in a wealthy family. In 1775, when he was about 20, he went on a "Grand Tour." This was a long trip around Europe that young, rich people often took to learn about art and culture.

Harry spent most of his Grand Tour hunting. While in Rome, he had his portrait painted by a famous artist named Pompeo Batoni. Later, he hired Humphry Repton, a well-known landscape designer, to create beautiful gardens at his country home, Uppark.

Public Role and Uppark

Sir Harry was a Member of Parliament (MP) for Portsmouth from 1782 to 1796. An MP is someone elected to represent their area in the country's government. Even though he was an MP for many years, he was known for not speaking much in the House of Commons, where laws are debated.

Uppark was a very important place for Sir Harry. He often hosted parties and had many important guests. One of his good friends was the Prince of Wales, who later became King George IV. The Prince of Wales visited Uppark often in the 1780s.

A young woman named Emma Hamilton lived at Uppark around 1780. She helped entertain guests at Sir Harry's parties. Later, she had a child named Emma Carew. After this, a frequent guest at Uppark, Charles Francis Greville, took Emma Hamilton in. He made sure her child, Emma Carew, was cared for by others.

Later Years and Family

Sir Harry lived a long life. On September 12, 1825, when he was over 70 years old, he married Mary Ann Bullock. She was his head dairy maid and was much younger, either 18 or 21.

When Sir Harry passed away on October 24, 1846, at the age of 91, he left everything he owned to his wife, Mary Ann. Mary Ann continued to live at Uppark with her sister, Frances, after Sir Harry's death.