Thomas Jones, 7th Viscount Ranelagh facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas Jones
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| Born | 9 January 1812 Fulham, London, England |
| Died | 13 November 1885 (aged 73) Westminster, London, England |
| Buried |
Fulham, London, England
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| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army |
| Rank | Lieutenant-Colonel |
Thomas Heron Jones, 7th Viscount Ranelagh (born January 9, 1812 – died November 13, 1885) was an important figure in British history. He was known for helping to create the Volunteer Force. This group was made up of everyday citizens who wanted to help defend Britain. He was also connected to some famous women of his time, like the model Annie Miller and the actress Lillie Langtry.
Thomas Heron Jones became the 7th Viscount Ranelagh and Baron Jones of Navan in 1820. This happened after his father passed away. These were special titles he inherited in Ireland.
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Building a Volunteer Army
Ranelagh was very keen on the idea of a volunteer army. This idea grew because people were worried about a possible invasion from France. In 1859, he started and led a group called the 2nd South Middlesex Rifle Volunteers. Many members of this group came from his own Ranelagh Yacht Club.
Leading the Volunteers
Ranelagh became a key leader of the Volunteer movement. He even met the French emperor Napoleon III as a representative of the volunteers. In 1863, Ranelagh helped arrange a large event in Brighton. Here, he gave a speech to protect the movement. He argued that an independent volunteer army was better for the country. He believed it was cheaper and more effective than a government-controlled force. Ranelagh felt that English people valued their independence. He said they trusted their "indomitable pluck," meaning their strong courage. At this time, he hoped for a "people's army" made of volunteers. He continued to lead the Volunteers until he died in 1885.
His Social Connections
Ranelagh knew many people in high society. He had connections with several notable women.
Annie Miller
Ranelagh became acquainted with Annie Miller. She was a model known for her work with the Pre-Raphaelite artists. Annie Miller later married Ranelagh's cousin.
Lillie Langtry
Ranelagh also played a role in introducing Lillie Langtry to London's high society. Langtry herself said that he "completely changed the current of my life." She became very popular after he invited her to a party. Famous artists like John Everett Millais and Frank Miles asked her to pose for portraits.
His Family
Ranelagh had two daughters and a son named Arthur Jones. Arthur inherited his father's property. However, because of the rules of the time, Arthur could not inherit his father's special titles. When Thomas Heron Jones died in 1885, the titles of Viscount Ranelagh and Baron Jones of Navan ended.
Other Family Members
Thomas Jones had some interesting relatives on his mother's side:
- Richard Montgomery: An American Revolutionary War hero. He was also a former British Army officer.
- Colonel Alexander Montgomery: A British Army officer. He was also a Member of Parliament for County Donegal in 1768.
His sister, Barbara, married Count von Rechberg. He was the Foreign Minister of Austria from 1859 to 1864.
