Lord William Hamilton facts for kids

Lord William Hamilton (born around 1706 – died 11 July 1734) was a member of Parliament for Lanarkshire in Scotland. He was a British politician who served for a short time in the House of Commons.

Early Life

Lord William was the second son of James Hamilton, 4th Duke of Hamilton, and his second wife, Elizabeth (née Gerard). When his father passed away, Lord William's older brother, James, became the new Duke. In 1726, there were rumors that Lord William might join the army. This happened when King George I asked his brother, the Duke of Hamilton, to return from Rome.

His Marriage

Lady William Hamilton, Lord William's wife

In early 1733, a noblewoman named the Countess of Hertford was interested in Lord William, but he did not return her feelings. Instead, in May of that year, he secretly married Frances Hawes. She was a beautiful woman whose family had lost their money. Lord William did not tell his brother, the Duke, about the marriage.

They quickly made their marriage official to prevent her father from trying to cancel it. It turned out to be a true love match. In the same year, Lord William was given a special job. He became the Vice-Chamberlain to the queen, Caroline of Ansbach. Since he was a second son, he didn't have much money. Queen Caroline even jokingly called him and his wife "handsome beggars."

Political Career and Death

Lord William returned to Lanarkshire to look after his older brother's interests there. He became a member of Parliament on 16 May 1734. He took over the role from his uncle, Archibald.

However, Lord William became ill in June and sadly passed away at his home in Pall Mall, London, on 11 July 1734. His wife, Frances, was later encouraged to remarry and became Viscountess Vane.

Images for kids

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  Lady William Hamilton, Lord William's wife