Herbert Harley Murray facts for kids
Sir Herbert Harley Murray was an important Scottish leader who helped govern colonies. He was born on November 4, 1829, and passed away on March 11, 1904. He was known for his work in the British government and as the Governor of Newfoundland.
Early Life and Career
Herbert Harley Murray belonged to a well-known Scottish family called Clan Murray. His father, George Murray, was a bishop, which is a high-ranking church leader. Herbert went to a famous university called Christ Church, Oxford. After finishing school, he started working for the government in 1852.
He was also a big fan of cricket and played for important teams like the Marylebone Cricket Club.
Murray held several important jobs in the government. He became the chairman of England's Board of Customs, which was in charge of taxes on goods coming into the country. Later, he helped the people of Newfoundland after a big bank crash in 1894. He was a "relief commissioner," meaning he helped organize aid and support.
Governor of Newfoundland
In 1895, Herbert Murray was appointed the Governor of Newfoundland. This was a very important role, making him the Queen's representative and a key leader in the colony. He was also knighted that same year, which means he received the title "Sir."
As Governor, Murray faced some big challenges. He tried to stop the sale of the Newfoundland Railway to a businessman named Robert Gillespie Reid. Murray believed this sale was not good for the people of Newfoundland. He tried to prevent the contract from getting royal approval, but he was not successful.
Murray also had disagreements with the local government, especially with Premier James Spearman Winter. Because of these disagreements, he was called back to England in 1898.
Personal Life
Herbert Murray married Charlotte Letitia Caroline in 1859. They had several children together. Sadly, Charlotte passed away in 1884. Murray remained a widower for the rest of his life. He died in March 1904, at the age of 74.
See also
- Governors of Newfoundland
- List of people of Newfoundland and Labrador
