Henry Scudamore, 3rd Duke of Beaufort facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Duke of Beaufort
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| Born | 23 March 1707 |
| Died | 26 February 1745 (aged 37) |
| Noble family | Beaufort |
| Spouse(s) | Frances Scudamore |
| Issue | Margaret Burr (illegitimate) |
| Father | Henry Somerset, 2nd Duke of Beaufort |
| Mother | Rachel Noel |
Henry Somerset-Scudamore, 3rd Duke of Beaufort (born Henry Somerset on March 23, 1707 – died February 26, 1745) was an English nobleman. He held the title of Duke and was known for supporting a political movement called Jacobitism. This movement wanted to bring the old Stuart royal family back to the throne of Great Britain.
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Early Life and Title
Henry was the older son of Henry Somerset, 2nd Duke of Beaufort and his mother, Rachel Noel. Because he was his father's oldest son, he was known as the Marquess of Worcester. This was a special title used for the heir to a duke.
When his father passed away on April 24, 1714, Henry became the 3rd Duke of Beaufort. He inherited his father's important title and lands.
Notable Achievements
When he was 19 years old, Henry ordered the creation of a very special piece of furniture. It was called the Badminton Chest, or Badminton Cabinet. This beautiful cabinet was made in Florence, Italy.
In 2004, the Badminton Cabinet was sold for £19 million. This made it the most expensive piece of furniture ever sold at that time. Today, you can see it on display at the Palais Liechtenstein in Vienna, Austria.
The Duke also helped start Britain's first hospital for children who had been abandoned. This was called the Foundling Hospital. His name is listed in the official document, called a royal charter, that allowed the hospital to open in 1739.
Political Support
In 1743, the Duke was one of several important English politicians. These politicians were called Tories. They talked with the French government to get help. They wanted France to support an invasion to bring the Stuart family back to rule Britain.
Later Life and Family
Henry Somerset-Scudamore passed away on February 26, 1745. He was buried at St Michael and All Angels Church, Badminton. A famous sculptor named John Michael Rysbrack created a memorial for him in 1754.
Because Henry did not have any children who could legally inherit his titles, his younger brother became the next Duke. His brother, Charles Noel Somerset, inherited his titles and estates.
On June 28, 1729, Henry married Frances Scudamore. She was the only daughter and heir of James Scudamore, 3rd Viscount Scudamore. Henry even added his wife's family name, Scudamore, to his own name later that year.
Henry had one daughter who was born outside of marriage. Her name was Margaret Burr. She later married a famous painter named Thomas Gainsborough.
Images for kids
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Henry Somerset-Scudamore, 3rd Duke of Beaufort
