Lionel Tollemache, 8th Earl of Dysart facts for kids

Lionel William John Tollemache, 8th Earl of Dysart (born 18 November 1794 – died 23 September 1878) was an important British nobleman and politician. He was known by different names throughout his life. He was called Lionel Manners until 1821. From 1821 to 1833, he was known as Lionel Tollemache. Later, from 1833 to 1840, people called him Lord Huntingtower. He was a member of the Tory political party.

Early Life and Family Name

Lionel was the son of William Manners and Catherine Rebecca Gray. His mother was a poet. In 1821, his grandmother, Louisa Tollemache, became the 7th Countess of Dysart. At this time, Lionel changed his last name from Manners to Tollemache. This change was officially allowed by the King.

When his father passed away in 1833, Lionel became the second Baronet of Hanby Hall. A Baronet is a special title, like a knight, that can be passed down in a family. He also became the person next in line to inherit his grandmother's title. He was given the special title of Lord Huntingtower.

Political Career and Public Service

Lionel Tollemache was involved in British politics. From 1827, he served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for the area called Ilchester. An MP is a person elected to represent their local area in the country's government. His younger brother, Felix Tollemache, also served as an MP for the same area.

They both lost their seats in the 1830 general election. This is when people vote for who they want to represent them in Parliament. In 1836, Lionel was given another important role. He became the High Sheriff of Leicestershire. A High Sheriff is a ceremonial official who represents the King or Queen in a county.

In 1841, Lionel inherited the title of Earl of Dysart from his grandmother. He also gained control of her large estate, Ham House, in Surrey. However, because the Earldom of Dysart was a Scottish peerage, it did not allow him to sit in the House of Lords. The House of Lords is one of the two parts of the British Parliament.

Family Life

Lord Dysart married Maria Elizabeth Toone in 1819. They had one son together, named William Lionel Felix Tollemache, who was born in 1820. Maria Elizabeth passed away in March 1852.

Lord Dysart lived to be 83 years old, passing away on 23 September 1878. His son, William, had already passed away before him. So, the title of Earl of Dysart was passed on to his grandson, William John Manners Tollemache, who became the 9th Earl.