Sir John Murray-Macgregor, 3rd Baronet facts for kids

Sir John Atholl Bannatyne Murray-Macgregor (born January 20, 1810 – died May 11, 1851) was a Scottish leader and government official. He briefly served as the President of the British Virgin Islands in 1851.

Early Life and Family Connections

John Atholl Bannatyne Murray was born on January 20, 1810. He was the oldest son of Evan John Murray, who was a high-ranking officer in the British Army. His father later became a Major-General. John's mother was Lady Elizabeth Murray.

In 1822, John's father became the leader of a Scottish group called Clan Gregor. He also inherited the title of "Baronet." A Baronet is a special title, like a knight, that can be passed down in a family. After his father received this title, John added "Macgregor" to his last name.

A Family of Leaders

John's father, Sir Evan, was also an important government official. He served as the Governor of several islands:

• Dominica (1831–1832)
• Antigua and the Leeward Islands (1832–1836)
• Barbados and the Windward Islands (1836–1841)

John's Own Family

On November 14, 1833, John married Mary Charlotte. She was the youngest daughter of Sir Thomas Masterman Hardy, who was a famous Rear-Admiral. John and Mary had several children:

• Sir Malcolm (1834–1879): He became a Rear-Admiral in the Royal Navy and inherited his father's Baronet title.
• Atholl (1836–1922): He worked in the Indian Civil Service, helping to govern parts of India.
• Evan (1842–1926): He was a civil servant who became a very important official in the British Navy.
• Alpin (1846–1899): He worked for Queen Victoria.
• Emily Louisa: She married David William Murray, who was a Viscount of Stormont.
• Mary Elizabeth.

Serving the British Virgin Islands

In late 1850, Sir John Murray-Macgregor was chosen to be the President of the British Virgin Islands. This was a key role in governing the islands.

He arrived in the British Virgin Islands in March 1851. He officially started his job on March 24, 1851.

A Short Time in Office

Sadly, Sir John's time as President was very short. He passed away at Government House on the island of Tortola on May 11, 1851.

His body was buried on the island in a special lead coffin. This was done so that his body could later be moved to Scotland for burial. Many people attended his funeral in the Virgin Islands. A British warship, HMS Helena, fired its guns in salute to honor him.