High Steward of Westminster Abbey facts for kids
The High Steward of Westminster Abbey is a special, respected job at Westminster Abbey in London. This person is chosen by the leaders of the Abbey, called the Dean and Chapter. Once chosen, they usually keep the job for their whole life.
Some people who have held this role in the past include Robert Cecil in the 1500s and Douglas Hurd around 2004. Since October 2016, the job has been held by the Duke of Buccleuch and Queensberry.
The High Steward has a special official costume: an orange cape and a white ruff (a fancy collar). There is also a Deputy High Steward. This person automatically gets the job because they are also the Lord Mayor of Westminster.
What is the High Steward's Role?
The High Steward of Westminster Abbey has a very old and important position. It is mostly a ceremonial role, meaning they attend special events and represent the Abbey. They do not manage the daily activities of the Abbey. This role helps connect the Abbey with important people and traditions.
Who Has Held This Important Role?
Many notable people have served as the High Steward of Westminster Abbey over the years. This list shows some of the individuals who have held this special position:
- Walter Montagu Douglas Scott, 5th Duke of Buccleuch (1842–1884)
- Hugh Grosvenor, 1st Duke of Westminster (? – 22 December 1899)
- Robert Gascoyne-Cecil, 3rd Marquess of Salisbury (January 1900 – 22 August 1903) (He was also the High Steward of the City and Liberty of Westminster)
- James Gascoyne-Cecil, 4th Marquess of Salisbury (10 November 1903 – 4 April 1947)
- Edward Frederick Lindley Wood, 1st Earl of Halifax (27 June 1947 – 23 December 1959)
- Harry Crookshank, 1st Viscount Crookshank (22 March 1960 – 17 October 1961)
- Ralph Assheton, 1st Baron Clitheroe (22 February 1962 – 18 September 1984)
- Gordon Richardson, Baron Richardson of Duntisbourne (10 January 1985 – December 1988)
- Robert Blake, Baron Blake (6 January 1989 – September 1999)
- Douglas Hurd, Baron Hurd of Westwell (September 1999 – February 2011)
- Richard Luce, Baron Luce (February 2011 – October 2016)
- Richard Scott, 10th Duke of Buccleuch (October 2016 – present)
