William Capell, 3rd Earl of Essex facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Earl of Essex
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Portrait of Lord Essex, by George Knapton, c. 1735
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| Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire | |
| In office 1722–1743 |
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| Preceded by | The 1st Earl Cowper |
| Succeeded by | The 2nd Earl Cowper |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
William Capell
11 January 1697 |
| Died | 8 January 1743 (aged 45) |
| Spouses |
Lady Elizabeth Russell
(m. 1726) |
| Children | Lady Charlotte Capell Lady Mary Capell William Capell, 4th Earl of Essex |
| Parents | Algernon Capell, 2nd Earl of Essex Lady Mary Bentinck |
William Capell, 3rd Earl of Essex (born January 11, 1697 – died January 8, 1743) was an important English noble. He held many roles in the royal court and worked as a diplomat for his country. An Earl is a high-ranking title in the British nobility.
Contents
Who Was William Capell?
William Capell was born into a noble family. His father was the 2nd Earl of Essex. His mother was Lady Mary Bentinck. William had a younger sister named Lady Mary Capel.
His grandparents were also important figures. They included Arthur Capell, 1st Earl of Essex and Lady Elizabeth Percy.
His Important Jobs and Roles
William Capell had many important jobs during his life. These roles showed his dedication to public service.
Helping Children in Need
William Capell was one of the first people to help start the Foundling Hospital. This charity began in October 1739. Its main goal was to care for children who had been abandoned. This was a very important cause at the time.
Roles in the Royal Court
William Capell worked closely with the royal family.
- He was a Gentleman of the Bedchamber for the Prince of Wales from about 1718 to 1727. This meant he was a trusted attendant to the Prince.
- He served as Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire from 1722 to about 1742. This role involved representing the King in that county.
- He was made a Knight of the Thistle in 1724. This is a special honor given by the King. He later gave up this title in 1738.
- He was in charge of two famous parks in London. He was the Ranger of St James's Park from 1727 to 1739. He was also the Ranger of Hyde Park from 1728 to 1739.
Diplomatic and Government Work
William Capell also worked as a diplomat.
- He was the British Ambassador to Turin from 1732 to 1737. This meant he represented Britain in Italy.
- He became a Privy Councillor around 1734. This is a group of trusted advisors to the King.
- He was made a Knight of the Garter around 1737. This is one of the highest honors in Britain.
- From 1739 until his death, he was the Captain of the Yeomen of the Guard. This group protects the King.
His Family Life
William Capell was married twice and had several children.
First Marriage and Children
On November 27, 1718, William married Lady Jane Hyde. She was also a lady-in-waiting to the Princess of Wales. They had two daughters together:
- Lady Charlotte Capell (1721–1790). She later married Thomas Villiers, 1st Earl of Clarendon.
- Lady Mary Capell (died 1782). She married Admiral of the Fleet Hon. John Forbes.
Lady Jane died in 1724.
Second Marriage and Son
On February 3, 1726, William married Lady Elizabeth Russell. She was the daughter of the 2nd Duke of Bedford. They had one son who survived:
- William Anne Capell, 4th Earl of Essex (1732–1799). He later became the 4th Earl of Essex.
Lord Essex passed away on January 8, 1743. His son, William, who was ten years old, inherited his titles and family lands.
