Henry Murray (British Army officer) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir Henry Murray
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Sir Henry Murray by William Salter
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| Born | 6 August 1784 |
| Died | 29 July 1860 |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | General |
| Commands held | Western District |
| Battles/wars | Napoleonic Wars |
| Awards | Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath |
General Sir Henry Murray KCB was a brave British Army officer. He was born on August 6, 1784, and passed away on July 29, 1860. Sir Henry fought in the famous Napoleonic Wars, a series of big conflicts in Europe. Because he was the younger son of an important noble, an earl, he was sometimes called "the Honourable".
Contents
Sir Henry Murray's Life and Military Career
Early Army Days
Henry Murray was born in 1784. He was the fourth son of David Murray, the 2nd Earl of Mansfield.
He started his army career very young. On May 16, 1800, he became a cornet in the 16th Dragoons. Soon after, he moved up the ranks quickly. By August 24, 1802, he was a captain in the 20th Dragoons.
Serving in Key Campaigns
Between 1805 and 1807, Sir Henry worked as an aide-de-camp for his uncle, Lord Cathcart. He served in Ireland and Egypt during this time.
Later, as a major, he joined the 26th Cameronians. He took part in the Walcheren Campaign in 1809. This included the siege of Flushing.
In 1810, he joined the 18th Hussars. He stayed with them through the end of the Napoleonic Wars. He became a Lieutenant-Colonel of the Regiment on January 2, 1812.
Challenges and Battles
During a river crossing with the 18th Hussars, Sir Henry's horse fell. He was badly hurt and had to spend time recovering in a hospital.
Despite his injury, he was present at the Battle of Morales on June 2, 1813. He was still suffering from his knee wound at the time.
He also played a role in the famous Battle of Quatre Bras on June 16, 1815. The next day, he led the army's retreat.
At the very important Battle of Waterloo on June 18, 1815, Sir Henry led the 18th Hussars. They were part of a charge led by Sir Hussey Vivian at the end of the battle.
Later Life
In 1842, Sir Henry became the General Officer Commanding the Western District. This was an important leadership role.
He lived at Wimbledon Lodge later in his life. He passed away there on July 29, 1860. You can find memorials to him in St Mary's Church, Wimbledon and also in the Garrison Church in Plymouth.
Family Life
On June 28, 1810, Sir Henry Murray married Emily, the daughter of Gerard de Vismé. They had children together.
Their son, Arthur Stormont Murray, joined the Rifle Brigade. Sadly, he died in August 1848 at the age of 28. He was killed in battle while leading his soldiers against the Boers in the Cape of Good Hope.
