Thomas Reynolds-Moreton, 1st Earl of Ducie facts for kids

Thomas Reynolds-Moreton, 1st Earl of Ducie

Thomas Reynolds-Moreton, 1st Earl of Ducie (born August 31, 1776 – died June 22, 1840) was an important figure in British history. He was the very first person to hold the title of Earl of Ducie.

Thomas was the son of Francis Reynolds-Moreton, 3rd Baron Ducie and his wife, Mary Provis. He went to two famous schools: Eton College and Exeter College, Oxford. When his father passed away on August 19, 1808, Thomas inherited his father's title, becoming the 4th Baron Ducie of Tortworth. This meant he took on a special role in society and government.

Early Life and Military Role

Thomas Reynolds-Moreton was born in 1776. He grew up in a time when Britain was often involved in wars. In 1809, he joined the military. He became a Lieutenant-Colonel Commandant in the Royal West Gloucestershire Local Militia. This was a group of local citizens who trained to defend their area, like a modern-day reserve force. He served in Bristol.

Achievements and Titles

Thomas was recognized for his contributions to society. In 1814, he was chosen to be a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a very old and respected group of scientists and thinkers. Being a Fellow means you are recognized for your excellent work in science.

Later, in 1837, he received an even higher honor. King William IV made him the 1st Earl of Ducie. This new title showed his importance and high standing in the country.

Family Life

Thomas Reynolds-Moreton married Lady Frances Herbert on December 6, 1797. Frances was the daughter of Henry Herbert, 1st Earl of Carnarvon. Thomas and Frances had a large family. They had three sons and five daughters who grew up to be adults.

• Lady Mary Elizabeth Kitty Moreton (died 1842) married William Feilding, 7th Earl of Denbigh. They had many children.
• Lady Emily Reynolds-Moreton married Admiral Sir James Whitley Deans Dundas.
• Henry George Francis Reynolds-Moreton, 2nd Earl of Ducie (1802-1853) was their oldest son. He later became the 2nd Earl of Ducie.
• Hon. Augustus Henry Moreton Macdonald (1804-1862) married Mary Jane Macdonald Lockhart. They had seven children.
• Lady Julia Frances (about 1806-1869) married James Langston. They had four children.
• Lady Charlotte (1806-1881) married Maurice Berkeley, 1st Baron FitzHardinge. They had two children.
• Hon. Percy (1808-1886) married Jane Frances Price. They had seven children.
• Lady Katherine (1815-1892) married John Raymond Raymond-Barker. They had one son.

Arms

Arms of Thomas Reynolds-Moreton, 1st Earl of Ducie

Coronet A Coronet of an Earl Crest A Moorcock's Head Or combed and wattled Gules between two Wings displayed Azure Escutcheon Quarterly: 1st and 4th, Argent a Chevron Gules between three Square Buckles Sable (Moreton); 2nd and 3rd, Or two Lions passant guardant Gules (Ducie) Supporters On either side a Unicorn Argent armed unguled maned and tufted Or, each gorged with a Ducal Coronet per pale Gold and Gules Motto Perseverando (By persevering)