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Herbert Stern, 1st Baron Michelham facts for kids

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The Lord Michelham

Herbert Stern (1851-1919), 1st Baron Michelham.png
Born 28 September 1851 (1851-09-28)
Died 7 January 1919 (1919-01-08) (aged 67)
Occupation
  • Financier
  • philanthropist
Parent(s) Hermann de Stern
Relatives
  • David de Stern (paternal uncle)
  • Sydney Stern, 1st Baron Wandsworth (cousin)

Herbert Stern, 1st Baron Michelham (born September 28, 1851 – died January 7, 1919) was an important British businessman and a kind person who gave a lot of money to good causes. He was also known as Sir Herbert Stern for a short time in 1905. He came from the famous Stern banking family.

Who Was Herbert Stern?

Herbert Stern was the son of Hermann de Stern. His father was a banker from Germany who led a big bank called Stern Brothers in London. Herbert's mother was Julia Goldsmid. He was also a cousin to other important people like Lord Wandsworth.

His Family's Background

The Stern family was well-known for their banking business. They were very successful and had a lot of influence. Herbert grew up in a family that understood money and business very well.

Herbert Stern's Career and Contributions

When his father passed away, Herbert Stern inherited a huge amount of money, about £2 million. He worked hard and made his fortune even bigger during his life.

Helping Others: Philanthropy

Herbert Stern was a very generous person. He was known as a philanthropist, which means someone who gives money and time to help others. He gave a lot of money to the National Gallery, which is a famous art museum. This helped the museum grow and share art with more people.

Supporting Soldiers During Wartime

During the First World War, Herbert Stern showed his kindness in a big way. He bought a hotel in Paris called Hotel Astoria. He turned this hotel into a hospital for British soldiers who were injured. This was a huge help for the troops needing care.

Love for Horse Racing

Herbert Stern also loved thoroughbred horse racing. He was very good at breeding horses. One of the horses he bred was named Plucky Liege. She became one of the most important broodmares (a female horse used for breeding) of the 20th century. Her offspring were very successful in races.

Becoming a Baron

In 1905, Herbert Stern was given a special title. He became a Baronet, which is a hereditary title in Britain. Later that same year, he was given an even higher title. He became a Baron, which made him a member of the peerage. This meant he was known as Baron Michelham.

Special Recognition

In 1912, Lord Michelham received another honor. He was made a Knight Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (KCVO). This is a special award given by the British monarch for personal service.

Later Life

Lord Michelham passed away in Paris in January 1919. He was 67 years old. After his death, his son, Herman, took over his title.

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