William Bouverie, 1st Earl of Radnor facts for kids
William Bouverie, 1st Earl of Radnor, was an important British nobleman. He was born on February 26, 1725, and passed away on January 28, 1776. For a time, people called him "Hon. William Bouverie."
Early Life and Education
William Bouverie was the oldest son of Jacob Bouverie, who was the 1st Viscount Folkestone, and his mother was Mary Clarke. He went to University College, Oxford for his education. This was a well-known university in England.
Becoming an Earl
William Bouverie took on several important roles during his life. In 1750, he became a deputy lieutenant for Wiltshire. This meant he helped the main representative of the King or Queen in that area. Later, in 1758, he also became a deputy lieutenant for Berkshire.
When his father passed away in 1761, William became the 2nd Viscount Folkestone. He also took over his father's role as the Recorder of Salisbury. A Recorder was like a judge for a city.
His highest title came in 1765. On October 31, he was made the Earl of Radnor and Baron Pleydell-Bouverie. These were very important noble titles.
Important Roles and Contributions
William Bouverie was chosen to be a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1767. The Royal Society is a famous group of scientists and thinkers. Being a Fellow means you are recognized for your contributions to knowledge.
In 1770, he became the governor of the French Hospital. This hospital helped French people who had moved to England. William was the first of nine Earls of Radnor who would lead this hospital over many years.
Family Life
William Bouverie was married three times. His first wife was Harriet Pleydell. They married in 1748. They had one son:
- Jacob Pleydell-Bouverie, 2nd Earl of Radnor (born 1750)
His second wife was Rebecca Alleyne. They married in 1751. They had three sons:
- Hon. William Henry Bouverie (born 1752)
- Hon. Bartholomew Bouverie (born 1753)
- Hon. Edward Bouverie (born 1760)
His third wife was Anne Hales. They married in 1765. She was the widow of another nobleman.
