Sir Montagu Chapman, 3rd Baronet facts for kids

Sir Montagu Lowther Chapman (born December 19, 1808 – died May 17, 1852) was a landowner from Ireland who also served in the British Parliament. He was known for his mysterious disappearance at sea.

Sir Montagu Chapman: A Life of Mystery

Montagu Lowther Chapman was born at Killua Castle in Westmeath, Ireland. His father was Sir Thomas Chapman, 2nd Baronet. Montagu studied at Trinity College, Dublin, which is a famous university.

In 1837, when his father passed away, Montagu became a Baronet. This meant he inherited his family's special title and their large estate, Killua Castle.

His Time as a Member of Parliament

In 1830, Sir Montagu was chosen to represent Westmeath, a county in Ireland, in the British Parliament. This was an important job where he helped make laws for the country.

He held this position until 1841. After that, his brother took over the role.

Adventures in Australia

In 1841, Sir Montagu traveled all the way to Australia. On June 14, 1842, he was given ownership of a big piece of land near Adelaide. He then rented out parts of this land as smaller farms.

Many of the people who rented these farms came from his own estate in Ireland. About 120 people moved from Ireland to Australia because of this. This area was first called Montagu's Farm, but today it's known as Gepp's Cross.

Other Roles and His Disappearance

In 1844, Sir Montagu was given the important role of High Sheriff of Westmeath for County Westmeath. This job involved keeping law and order in the county.

Sadly, Sir Montagu was last seen in 1852. He was on a ship sailing from Melbourne to Sydney, but the ship vanished at sea and was never found. Because he never married, his younger brother, Sir Benjamin James Chapman, inherited all his land in both Ireland and Australia.

See also

• List of people who disappeared mysteriously at sea