Torquhil Matheson facts for kids

General Sir Torquhil George Matheson, 5th Baronet (born February 4, 1871 – died November 13, 1963) was a brave Scottish officer. He led three different army divisions during the toughest battles of the First World War. Before that, he served in the militia and with the Coldstream Guards in the Second Boer War. For his great service, he was made a knight in 1921. Later, in 1944, he became the 5th Baronet of his family, inheriting the title from his brother.

Early Life and Family Background

Torquhil Matheson was born on February 4, 1871. He was the youngest child of Sir Alexander Matheson, 1st Baronet. He went to school at Eton College, a famous school in England.

He became a Baronet in 1944. This happened because his four older brothers passed away before him. Also, three of his nephews, who were his older brother's only sons, sadly died fighting in the First World War.

In 1900, Matheson married Ella Louisa Linton. Later, in 1923, he married Lady Elizabeth Mary Gertrude Lucia Sophia Keppel. She was the youngest daughter of a nobleman. They had two sons together:

• Major Sir Torquhil Alexander Matheson of Matheson, 6th Bt. (1925–1993)
• Major Sir Fergus John Matheson of Matheson, 7th Bt. (1927–2017)

Military Career and Service

Torquhil Matheson started his military journey in the Hertfordshire Militia. On December 15, 1888, he became a second lieutenant in the Bedfordshire Regiment. He later joined the Coldstream Guards in 1894.

Service in the Boer War

He fought in the Second Boer War in South Africa. He was an adjutant, helping to manage the 1st Battalion from 1899 to 1902. His battalion took part in important battles like Belmont and Modder River. His bravery was noted, and he was promoted to captain in 1901. After the war, he returned to England in 1902.

World War I Leadership

When the First World War began in August 1914, Matheson went to France with his regiment. He fought in many battles and was promoted to lieutenant colonel in 1915. He then took command of the 3rd Battalion.

Mayor of Maubeuge presenting the Guards Division with a flag as an appreciation from the town which was taken by the division on 9 November 1918. Major General Torquhil Matheson is seen receiving the flag, 14 November 1918.

In July 1915, Matheson was given command of the 46th Brigade. This brigade was part of the 15th (Scottish) Division. He led them until March 1917. He was then promoted to major general. He took over the 20th (Light) Division.

Just before the Battle of Passchendaele, Matheson was affected by a German gas attack. He had to step down from his command for a short time. In September, he took charge of the 4th Division. He led this division until September 1918. After that, he commanded the famous Guards Division. He led them through the final months of the war until the fighting ended in November 1918.

Post-War Commands and Retirement

After the war, Matheson received several honors for his service. He was awarded the Croix de Guerre from France. He also became a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George. In 1922, he was made a Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath. This was for his valuable work with the Waziristan Force.

He continued to lead various units. He commanded the 7th Guards Brigade. Then he led the 7th Infantry Division. In February 1927, he became the General Officer Commanding of the 54th (East Anglian) Division.

On June 30, 1931, Matheson took his last command. He became the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Command, India. He retired from this position as a full general on June 30, 1935. He passed away in November 1963, at the age of 92.