Jenico Preston, 14th Viscount Gormanston facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Viscount Gormanston
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| 35th Governor of the Leeward Islands | |
| In office 1885–1887 |
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| Monarch | Victoria |
| Preceded by | Charles Monroe Eldridge |
| Succeeded by | Charles Mitchell |
| 14th Governor of British Guiana | |
| In office 1887–1893 |
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| Monarch | Victoria |
| Preceded by | Charles Bruce |
| Succeeded by | Charles Bruce |
| 7th Governor of Tasmania | |
| In office 8 August 1893 – 14 August 1900 |
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| Monarch | Victoria |
| Preceded by | Robert Hamilton |
| Succeeded by | Arthur Havelock |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 1 June 1837 Gormanston Castle, County Meath, Ireland |
| Died | 29 October 1907 (aged 70) Dublin, Ireland |
| Spouses | 1. Ismay Louisa Ursula Bellew; 2. Georgina Jane Connellan |
Jenico William Joseph Preston, 14th Viscount Gormanston, was an important Anglo-Irish leader. He was born on June 1, 1837, and passed away on October 29, 1907. He served as a "colonial administrator," which means he helped manage countries that were part of the British Empire.
Contents
Early Life and Family Background
Jenico Preston was born at Gormanston Castle in County Meath, Ireland. His father was Edward Preston, the 13th Viscount Gormanston. A Viscount is a noble title, ranking below an Earl but above a Baron.
Joining the Military
In 1855, when he was 18, Jenico joined the King's Royal Rifle Corps. This was a famous British Army regiment. He became a Lieutenant and served during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. This was a major uprising against British rule in India. He left the army in 1860.
Early Public Service
After his military service, Jenico Preston began working in public roles in Ireland. He served as High Sheriff of County Dublin in 1865. He was also the High Sheriff of County Meath in 1871. A High Sheriff was a local official responsible for law and order.
From 1866 to 1868, he worked as a "Chamberlain" for the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. The Lord Lieutenant was the British monarch's representative in Ireland. This role involved managing the household and affairs of this important official.
Becoming a Viscount
In 1876, Jenico's father passed away. This meant Jenico inherited his father's title and became the 14th Viscount Gormanston. As a Viscount, he gained a seat in the House of Lords. The House of Lords is part of the British Parliament.
A Career as a Governor
Lord Gormanston spent many years serving as a governor in different parts of the British Empire. These roles were very important. Governors were responsible for leading the local government and representing the British Crown.
Governor of the Leeward Islands
In 1885, Lord Gormanston was appointed Governor of the Leeward Islands. These islands are located in the Caribbean Sea. He held this position for two years, until 1887.
Governor of British Guiana
After his time in the Leeward Islands, he became the Governor of British Guiana. This country is located on the northern coast of South America. He served there from 1887 to 1893.
Governor of Tasmania
His final major role was as the Governor of Tasmania. Tasmania is an island state south of mainland Australia. He served as governor there from 1893 until 1900.
Honors and Awards
For his dedicated service, Lord Gormanston received special honors. He was made a Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG) in 1887. Later, in 1897, he was promoted to Knight Grand Cross of the same order (GCMG). These awards recognized his important work for the British Empire.
Family Life
Lord Gormanston was married twice. His first wife was the Hon. Ismay Louisa Ursula Bellew. They married in 1861 but did not have any children. Sadly, Ismay passed away in 1875.
In 1878, he married his second wife, Georgina Jane Connellan. With Georgina, he had three sons and one daughter.
Later Life and Legacy
Lord Gormanston passed away in Dublin, Ireland, in October 1907. He was 70 years old. His eldest son, Jenico Edward Joseph Preston, became the 15th Viscount Gormanston, continuing the family title.
See also
- Peerage of Ireland
- List of Knights and Dames Grand Cross of the Order of St Michael and St George
Images for kids
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The coat of arms for Viscount Gormanston, featuring the Order of St Michael and St George.
