William Howard, 8th Earl of Wicklow facts for kids

William Cecil James Philip John Paul Howard (born October 30, 1902, died February 8, 1978) was an important Irish nobleman. He held the title of the 8th Earl of Wicklow. Before he became an Earl in 1946, people knew him as Lord Clonmore.

Early Life and Family

William Howard was the only child of Ralph Howard, who was the 7th Earl of Wicklow. His mother was the Countess of Wicklow, formerly Lady Gladys Mary Hamilton. His grandparents on his mother's side were the 2nd Duke of Abercorn and Lady Mary Anna Curzon-Howe.

Education and Early Career

William started his education at Wixenford School. He then went on to the famous Eton College. In 1921, he began studying at Merton College, Oxford, a well-known university.

After his university studies, William became a deacon and then a priest in the Church of England. This meant he was a leader in the church. While at Oxford, he knew famous writers like Evelyn Waugh and John Betjeman. He also worked for a church mission in Somers Town, London, helping the community.

A Change in Faith and War Service

William Howard was very devoted to his faith. He was first an Anglo-Catholic, which is a part of the Church of England. However, in 1932, he decided to become a Roman Catholic. This was a big change for him.

During World War II, William joined the army. He served in the Royal Fusiliers and rose to the rank of Captain. This showed his dedication to his country during a difficult time.

Becoming an Earl and Later Years

In 1946, William's father passed away. This meant William inherited the family title and became the 8th Earl of Wicklow.

In the 1950s, he spent time writing books about religious topics. He also worked as a translator, changing texts from one language to another. On September 2, 1959, he married Eleanor Butler. Eleanor was an architect and had even been a member of the Irish Parliament, called Seanad Éireann, from 1948 to 1951. William and Eleanor did not have any children.

William Howard, the 8th Earl of Wicklow, died in 1978. After his death, the title passed to his first cousin, Cecil Aylmar Howard, who became the 9th Earl. When the 9th Earl died in 1983, the title of Earl of Wicklow came to an end.

Images for kids

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  William Cecil James Philip John Paul Paul Howard, 8th Earl of Wicklow, by Bassano Ltd, 1920