Robert Percy Douglas facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir Robert Percy Douglas, Bt
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|---|---|
| Born | 29 August 1805 |
| Died | 30 September 1891 (aged 86) |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1818–1868 |
| Rank | General |
Sir Robert Percy Douglas, 4th Baronet (born August 29, 1805 – died September 30, 1891) was an important officer in the British Army. He reached a very high rank, becoming a General. He also served as the leader of the island of Jersey.
Early Life and Family
Robert Percy Douglas was born on August 29, 1805. His father was also a famous General, Sir Howard Douglas. Robert went to school at Royal Grammar School, High Wycombe. In 1861, after his father passed away, Robert became the 4th Baronet in his family. This is a special title that is passed down through families.
A Career in the Army
Robert joined the British Army in 1819. He worked hard and moved up through the ranks. He became a colonel, which is a senior officer who leads a large group of soldiers called a regiment. He was in charge of the 2nd Battalion of the Prince of Wales's (North Staffordshire) Regiment.
From 1860 to 1863, Robert Percy Douglas was the Lieutenant Governor of Jersey. This meant he was the Queen's representative and the main leader of the island. After that, he spent five years as the Lieutenant-Governor of the Cape of Good Hope. This area is now part of South Africa. While there, he held the local rank of lieutenant general.
He was given command of the 98th (The Prince of Wales's) Regiment of Foot in 1864. He stayed with this regiment until 1881. At that time, his regiment joined with another to form The Prince of Wales's (North Staffordshire Regiment). He then led the 2nd Battalion of this new regiment until he died. He was promoted to the full rank of General on May 22, 1874.
Later Life and Legacy
General Robert Percy Douglas passed away on September 30, 1891. He was 87 years old. He died at his home in Bournemouth.
His daughter, Ann Penelope Harriet, married Sir Hugh Low in 1885. His third son, Sir Arthur Percy Douglas, became the Under-Secretary for Defence in New Zealand.
A special £1 coin was made in his memory. It featured the Percy Douglas, which was a three-masted ship. The town of Douglas, South Africa in South Africa is also named after him. This town is located where the Orange and Vaal Rivers meet.
