Hugh Warburton facts for kids
General Hugh Warburton (born 1695 – died 1771) was an important officer in the British Army. He fought in major conflicts like the French and Indian War and the Seven Years' War. He led two different regiments during his long career, including the famous 45th Regiment of Foot.
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Early Life and Family
Hugh Warburton was born in 1695. His father was Thomas Warburton. His mother was Anne, whose father was Sir Robert Williams, 2nd Baronet. Hugh's family had strong connections in England.
His sister, Jane, married John Campbell, 2nd Duke of Argyll. She was also a Maid of Honour for Queen Anne. This was an important role in the royal court. Jane passed away in 1767 and was buried in Westminster Abbey.
Military Career
Hugh Warburton began his army career on July 25, 1715. He started as a cornet, a junior officer. By 1734, he became a lieutenant-colonel. In 1745, he was made a colonel and given command of the 45th Regiment of Foot.
Service in North America
The 45th Regiment was first sent to Gibraltar. Then, in October 1745, they moved to Fortress of Louisbourg in North America. Colonel Warburton was in charge of the soldiers stationed there. The regiment was known by different numbers over time. But in 1748, it was officially named the 45th Regiment of Foot. By 1751, regiments were named by their number instead of their commander.
After King George's War, Warburton's regiment stayed in Halifax, Nova Scotia. This was during a conflict known as Father Le Loutre's War. Several other officers, like Lt Col John Horseman, served under him.
The regiment faced challenges, including a raid on Dartmouth in May 1751. During this raid, Mi'kmaq and Acadian fighters attacked the town. They caused damage and sadly, some British villagers and a sergeant from the 45th Foot were killed.
Later, Warburton's regiment helped defeat French and Native forces. This happened at the Battle of Fort Beauséjour in June 1755.
French and Indian War
The 45th Regiment also played a role in the French and Indian War. They fought under Brigadier General James Wolfe in the Siege of Louisbourg in July 1758. This was a major battle to capture a key French fortress.
In 1761, Warburton moved to command the 27th Regiment of Foot. This regiment then took part in the invasion of Martinique in January 1762. They also helped capture Grenada in February 1762.
The 27th Regiment also fought in the Battle of Havana in June 1762. This was during the Anglo-Spanish War. The regiment suffered many losses there. They were then sent to New York to recover. In August 1767, the regiment returned to Ireland.
Promotions and Later Life
Warburton stayed with the 27th Foot until he passed away on August 26, 1771. He received several promotions during his career. He became a major-general in 1755. Then, he was promoted to lieutenant-general in 1758. Finally, he reached the rank of general on April 13, 1770.
He was also a member of the Premier Grand Lodge of England, a group known as the Freemasons.
Personal Life
Hugh Warburton married Susanna Norris. She was the daughter of Edward Norris. They had one child, a daughter named Anne Susanna. Anne Susanna later married Richard Pennant, 1st Baron Penrhyn. However, they did not have any children.
After her husband's death, Lady Penrhyn sold their family home, Winnington Hall. She passed away in 1816. General Warburton is buried at the Church of the Holy Trinity, Newton St Loe.
