Somerset Maxwell (King's Lynn MP) facts for kids
Somerset Arthur Maxwell was a British politician and soldier who lived from 1905 to 1942. He was a member of the Conservative Party, one of the main political groups in the United Kingdom. He served as a Member of Parliament (MP) and was also a Lieutenant-Colonel in the army during World War II.
Family Life
Somerset Arthur Maxwell was the oldest son of Arthur Kenlis Maxwell. In 1930, he married Angela Susan Roberts.
Together, they had three children:
- Barry Owen Somerset Maxwell
- Simon Kenlis Maxwell
- Sheelin Virginia Maxwell
Political Career
In 1935, Somerset Maxwell was elected as the Member of Parliament (MP) for the King's Lynn constituency in Norfolk. He took over from another Conservative MP, Lord Fermoy.
Before becoming an MP, he was an officer in the 2nd Cavalry Divisional Signals (Middlesex Yeomanry) starting in the 1920s.
Military Service and Death
During World War II, Lieutenant-Colonel Maxwell served in the army. He was injured in action at El Alamein in December 1942. He sadly died from his wounds at the age of 37.
His funeral took place on New Year's Eve, shortly after his death. Soldiers who had served with him gathered to pay their respects. The ceremony was held near the cemetery.
His coffin was carried by soldiers. A chaplain led the service. Many officers and soldiers attended, including those who had served under him for a long time.
During the service, planes taking off nearby made it hard to hear. However, the words of the 23rd Psalm could still be heard. After the coffin was lowered, a firing party fired three rounds into the air. A bugler played "Last Post" and "Reveille". Wreaths were placed on the grave, and those present offered their final salutes.
After his death, a special election was held in King's Lynn in February 1943. Lord Fermoy, the previous MP, was re-elected to the seat.
