James Cranstoun, 8th Lord Cranstoun facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Lord Cranstoun
|
|
|---|---|
| Born | 1755 |
| Died | 22 September 1796 Bishop's Waltham |
| Buried | |
| Allegiance | Kingdom of Great Britain |
| Service/ |
Royal Navy |
| Years of service | c. 1776–1796 |
| Rank | Captain |
| Commands held | HMS Renard HMS Saint Eustatius HMS Belliqueux HMS Formidable HMS Grampus HMS Assistance HMS Raisonnable HMS Bellerophon |
| Battles/wars | American Revolutionary War
|
| Spouse(s) | Elizabeth Montolieu |
Captain James Cranstoun, 8th Lord Cranstoun (1755–1796) was an important officer in the Royal Navy, which is the navy of Great Britain. He was known for his bravery and leadership during major sea battles.
Contents
Who Was James Cranstoun?
James Cranstoun was born in 1755. He was the third son in his family. His father was James Cranstoun, 6th Lord Cranstoun. In 1778, when his older brother, William Cranstoun, 7th Lord Cranstoun, passed away, James became the 8th Lord Cranstoun. This meant he inherited a special title.
James Cranstoun began his career in the Royal Navy. He became a Lieutenant in 1776. This was an early officer rank. By 1780, he had risen to the rank of Captain. This was a very important position.
Key Commands
Captain Cranstoun commanded several ships during his time in the navy. These included HMS Belliqueux and HMS Assistance. Later, he commanded HMS Bellerophon. Leading these ships meant he was in charge of many sailors and powerful warships.
Important Battles
Captain Cranstoun took part in some very big battles. These fights were part of two major wars.
American Revolutionary War
During the American Revolutionary War, he fought in two important battles.
- The Battle of St. Kitts happened in January 1782. Captain Cranstoun commanded HMS Belliqueux in this battle.
- After the Battle of the Saintes in April 1782, he was chosen for a special mission. He was sent back home to deliver the news of the victory. He was even mentioned in official reports for his good work.
French Revolutionary War
Later, during the French Revolutionary War, he continued to serve. In 1795, he commanded HMS Bellerophon. He fought under Admiral Cornwallis at the First Battle of Groix. This showed his continued dedication to the navy.
Later Life and Passing
In 1796, Captain Cranstoun was chosen to be the Governor of Grenada. This was a big honor. However, he sadly passed away before he could start this new role. He died on September 22, 1796, in Bishop's Waltham. He became ill from something he drank. He was buried at the Royal Garrison Church in Portsmouth.
Family Life
Lord Cranstoun married Elizabeth Montolieu in 1792. She was the youngest daughter of Lieutenant-Colonel Lewis Charles Montolieu. Elizabeth was also related to other important people. They did not have any children. Because of this, his title passed to his nephew after he died. Lady Cranstoun passed away the next year, in 1797.
