James Hamilton, 6th Duke of Hamilton facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Duke of Hamilton
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The Duke of Hamilton
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| Personal details | |
| Born | 10 July 1724 |
| Died | 17 January 1758 (aged 33) Great Tew, Oxfordshire |
| Nationality | Scottish |
| Spouse | Elizabeth Gunning |
| Children | |
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James George Hamilton (born July 10, 1724 – died January 17, 1758) was a Scottish nobleman. He was known as the 6th Duke of Hamilton and the 3rd Duke of Brandon. A duke is a very high-ranking noble title, often passed down through families. He was also a Knight of the Order of the Thistle, which is a special honor in Scotland.
Early Life and School
James George Hamilton was the son of the 5th Duke of Hamilton. His mother was Lady Anne Cochrane. From the time he was born until his father passed away, he was called the Marquess of Clydesdale. This was his title before he became a Duke.
He went to Winchester College, a famous school, from 1734 to 1740. After that, he studied at St Mary Hall, Oxford University in 1741. Around 1742, he became a Knight of the Thistle. In 1743, he earned a special degree called a Doctor of Civil Law.
On March 2, 1743, when he was just 18 years old, he became the Duke of Hamilton after his father died.
Marriage and Family
On Valentine's Day, February 14, 1752, the Duke of Hamilton met a very beautiful lady named Elizabeth Gunning in London. It is said that the Duke wanted to marry her that very night!
They tried to find a priest to marry them right away. However, they didn't have a special marriage license, a wedding ring, or the usual public announcements called "banns." So, the first priest they found said no.
They eventually got married that night in a place called Mayfair Chapel. This chapel allowed quick marriages without all the usual paperwork. They even used a ring from a bed curtain!
The Duke and Elizabeth had three children together:
- Lady Elizabeth Hamilton (born 1753 – died 1797)
- James Hamilton, 7th Duke of Hamilton (born 1755 – died 1769)
- Douglas Hamilton, 8th Duke of Hamilton (born 1756 – died 1799)
His Passing
The 6th Duke of Hamilton passed away on January 17, 1758. He was only 33 years old. He caught a cold while he was out hunting, and it became very serious.
He was buried in February 1758. His resting place is in the family mausoleum in Hamilton, South Lanarkshire, Scotland.
Involvement with Freemasonry
The 6th Duke of Hamilton was also involved with a group called Freemasons. He held an important position as the Right Worshipful Master of the local Masonic Lodge, Hamilton Kilwinning No.7. He served in this role for three years in a row, from 1753 to 1755.
