William Howard, 4th Earl of Wicklow facts for kids
William Howard, 4th Earl of Wicklow (born February 13, 1788 – died March 22, 1869) was an important figure in Irish and British politics. He was part of a group known as Anglo-Irish peers, which means he was a nobleman from Ireland with British ancestry. For a few years, from 1815 to 1818, he was known as Lord Clonmore.
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Early Life and Family Connections
William Howard was the oldest son of William Howard, 3rd Earl of Wicklow and Eleanor Caulfeild. When his father passed away in 1818, William inherited the title and became the 4th Earl of Wicklow. This meant he became a leader in his family and community.
Joining the House of Lords
In 1821, William Howard was chosen to be an Irish representative peer. This was a special role that allowed him to represent Ireland's nobility in the House of Lords in London. The House of Lords is part of the British Parliament, where laws are discussed and made. As a representative peer, he joined the Tory political party, which was one of the main political groups at the time.
Serving as Lord Lieutenant
From 1831 until his death, William Howard held another important position. He was the very first Lord Lieutenant of Wicklow. A Lord Lieutenant was like a special representative of the King or Queen in a specific county. Their job was to help with local government and public duties.
Receiving a Special Honor
In 1846, William Howard received a high honor. He was made a Knight of the Order of St Patrick. This is a very old and respected order of chivalry in Ireland, similar to being knighted. It showed his dedication and service.
Family and Succession
William Howard married Lady Cecil Frances Hamilton in 1816. She was the only child of John Hamilton, 1st Marquess of Abercorn. William and Lady Cecil did not have any sons. Because of this, when William passed away, his title of Earl of Wicklow went to his nephew, Charles Howard.
