Sir Philip Honywood facts for kids

General Sir Philip Honywood (also spelled Honeywood; around 1677 – 17 June 1752) was an important officer in the British Army. He was known for his bravery and loyalty to the British Crown.

Early Life and Joining the Army

Philip Honywood was born around 1677. He was the second son of Charles Ludovic Honywood and Mary Clement. His grandfather was Sir Robert Honywood. Philip's father passed away when Philip was about ten years old.

He decided to join the army when he was 17. On 12 June 1694, he became an ensign in a foot regiment. An ensign was a junior officer who carried the regiment's flag. He served with King William III in the Netherlands.

Philip quickly moved up the ranks. He became a captain in the Royal Fusiliers on 1 April 1696. Then, on 10 March 1702, he became a captain in a new regiment.

Serving in Europe

During the reign of Queen Anne, Philip Honywood fought in two major campaigns in Brabant, a region in Europe. He served under the famous general, John Churchill, the Duke of Marlborough. These were tough battles, and Philip showed great courage.

Later, he moved to serve in Spain. Because of his excellent performance, he was promoted to lieutenant-colonel. This meant he was second-in-command of a regiment. On 27 May 1709, he became a colonel, leading his own regiment, the 92nd Regiment. This regiment was later disbanded in 1712. In 1710, he was promoted again to brigadier-general.

Loyalty to the Crown

Philip Honywood strongly supported the idea that only Protestants should be able to become king or queen of Britain. This was called the "Protestant succession."

At one point, a new government was formed. Some people thought this new government might support James Francis Edward Stuart, who was known as "the Pretender." He was trying to become king instead of the Protestant line.

Philip Honywood and two other generals showed their strong feelings. At a public dinner, they made a toast that was against the new government. Because of this, Queen Anne decided they could no longer serve in the army.

However, things changed four years later. A new king, George I, came to the throne. The ministers who had removed Honywood from his position were charged with serious crimes and fled to France. King George I rewarded Brigadier-General Honywood for his loyalty. He was given a special job in the King's household.

Leading a New Regiment

On 22 July 1715, Philip Honywood was given an important task. He was asked to create and train a new cavalry unit. This unit later became known as the 11th Hussars. Cavalry units ride horses into battle.

He led his new regiment during a rebellion in 1715, known as the Jacobite rising. He commanded a group of soldiers at the Battle of Preston. During this battle, he was wounded while bravely attacking part of the town. He showed great courage and good judgment.

Further Promotions and Battles

In 1719, Honywood led a group of soldiers in an expedition against Spain. He successfully captured the town of Vigo with 800 men. He then helped to besiege the citadel, which surrendered a few days later.

He continued to rise through the ranks. In 1726, he was promoted to major-general. In 1727, he was part of the army ready to go to Holland if needed. On 29 May 1732, after leading the 11th Dragoons for 17 years, he was moved to command the 3rd Dragoons. In 1735, he became a lieutenant-general.

Commander and Knight

In 1742, Philip Honywood was sent to Flanders to command British forces. He was in charge until the Earl of Stair arrived. The next year, he was promoted to the highest rank: general. On 18 April 1743, he was appointed colonel of the King's Horse, which later became the 1st Dragoon Guards.

At the Battle of Dettingen, General Honywood commanded one part of the army. He bravely led the Royal Horse Guards and the King's Horse in a charge. He continued to serve with distinction in other campaigns in Europe. The King was very pleased with his service and made him a Knight of the Bath. This was a high honor.

Sir Philip Honywood passed away in 1752. He was buried with military honors in Portsmouth. At the time of his death, he was the Governor of Portsmouth, a very important position.