Lord Lieutenant of Dunbartonshire facts for kids

Dunbartonshire, which used to be spelled Dumbartonshire, is a historic county in Scotland. For many years, special people called Lord Lieutenants have represented the King or Queen in this area. They are like the monarch's personal representatives in the county.

What is a Lord Lieutenant?

A Lord Lieutenant is a very important person chosen by the King or Queen to be their official representative in a specific county or area. Think of them as the monarch's local ambassador! Their main job is to uphold the dignity of the Crown. This means they help with royal visits, present awards on behalf of the King or Queen, and support local community groups and volunteers.

The Role of a Lord Lieutenant

The Lord Lieutenant's role is mostly ceremonial. They don't make laws or run the local government. Instead, they focus on promoting a sense of community and national pride. They often attend important local events, like opening new buildings or celebrating special anniversaries. They also help to organize visits from members of the Royal Family. It's a bit like being the chief host for the King or Queen in their area!

History of the Role

The role of Lord Lieutenant has a long history, going back many centuries. Originally, these people had more power, especially in military matters. Over time, their duties changed. Today, it's a respected position that helps connect the local community with the wider country and the Royal Family. They are usually chosen from people who have already done a lot for their community.

Lord Lieutenants of Dunbartonshire

Here is a list of the people who have served as the Lord Lieutenant for Dunbartonshire. Each person held this important role for a certain period, representing the monarch in the county.

• John Elphinstone, 11th Lord Elphinstone (17 March 1794 – 19 August 1799)
• John Elphinstone, 12th Lord Elphinstone (19 November 1799 – 20 May 1813)
• James Graham, 3rd Duke of Montrose (10 July 1813 – 30 December 1836)
• Sir James Colquhoun, 4th Baronet, of Luss (14 January 1837 – 18 December 1873)
• Humphrey Ewing Crum-Ewing (23 February 1874 – 3 July 1887)
• Sir James Colquhoun, 5th Baronet (24 August 1887 – 13 March 1907)
• John White, 1st Baron Overtoun (13 April 1907 – 15 February 1908)
• James Burns, 3rd Baron Inverclyde (21 May 1908 – 16 August 1919)
• Sir Iain Colquhoun, 7th Baronet (4 November 1919 – 12 November 1948)
• Maj. Gen. Alexander Telfer-Smollett (2 February 1949 – 9 October 1954)
• Admiral Sir Angus Cunninghame Graham (5 January 1955 – 14 February 1968)
• Robert Arbuthnott (14 May 1968 – 1975)
• James Cassels Robertson (1 December 1975 – 9 December 1978)
• Alastair Pearson (20 June 1979 – 1990)
• Donald Hardie (16 August 1990 – 2007)
• Donald Ross (6 March 2007 – 2008)
• Michael Gregory (October 2008 – August 2020)
• Jill Williamina Young (12 August 2020 – incumbent)