William Arden, 2nd Baron Alvanley facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Lord Alvanley
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Personal details | |
| Born | 8 January 1789 London, Kingdom of Great Britain |
| Died | 16 November 1849 |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Branch/service |  British Army |
| Unit | Coldstream Guards |
William Arden, 2nd Baron Alvanley (born January 8, 1789 – died November 16, 1849) was a British Army officer. He was also a nobleman and a very social person. He was good friends with Beau Brummell, a famous trendsetter of his time. William Alvanley was part of a group of young men close to the Prince Regent, who later became King George IV.
Contents
Early Life and Army Career
William Alvanley was the son of Richard Arden, 1st Baron Alvanley. His mother was Anne Wilbraham-Bootle. He decided to join the British Army when he was young.
He started as an ensign, which is a junior officer rank, in the Coldstream Guards. This is a famous part of the British Army. In March 1809, he was promoted to captain. Later, he moved to other army units.
William Alvanley faced financial difficulties. Because of this, he had to leave his army position in 1826. He later served for a short time in the Cheshire Yeomanry Cavalry. He resigned from this role in 1840.
A Fashionable Gentleman of His Time
Lord Alvanley was a very important and popular figure during the Regency era. This was a period in British history when King George III was unwell. His son, the Prince Regent, ruled in his place.
Alvanley was part of the Prince Regent's close group of friends. He was known for his quick wit and was considered one of the funniest men around. He was also a close friend of Beau Brummell. Brummell was famous for his style and manners.
Alvanley, Brummell, and two other friends were key members of a club called Watier's. People sometimes called it "the Dandy Club." A dandy was a man who cared a lot about his appearance and manners. The poet Lord Byron even mentioned them.
In 1813, there was a big fancy dress party. The Prince Regent spoke to Alvanley but ignored Brummell. This was a public sign that Brummell was no longer the Prince Regent's favorite. After this, Brummell famously asked Alvanley, "Alvanley, who's your fat friend?" This comment was about the Prince Regent.
Even after this, Alvanley continued to support Brummell. He sent money to his friend when Brummell had to live in France.
Later Life and Challenges
William Alvanley lived a very fancy and expensive life. He spent a lot of money, which came from his family's properties. He was known for spending freely.
However, he eventually spent more money than he had. This led to serious financial problems. He had to sell his family's estates to pay off his debts. Places like Underbank Hall and parts of the Bredbury estate were sold. In 1827, he sold the Willington Estate.
He also left his membership at White's, another famous club. When King George IV died in 1830, Alvanley's social standing became less important. His limited money also made things harder. He sometimes spoke in the House of Lords, which is part of the British Parliament.
William Alvanley never married and did not have any children. When he passed away, his title went to his only brother, Richard Arden.
Arms
 |
|
