William Kerr, 5th Marquess of Lothian facts for kids

William John Kerr, 5th Marquess of Lothian (1737–1815), a brave soldier and nobleman.

General William John Kerr, 5th Marquess of Lothian, KT (born March 13, 1737 – died January 4, 1815) was an important British soldier and a member of the nobility. He held the title of Lord Newbattle until 1767. After that, he was known as Earl of Ancrum until 1775. He was buried in Farnham, Surrey, in 1815.

William John Kerr was the son of William Kerr, 4th Marquess of Lothian. He took over his father's title, Marquess of Lothian, in 1775.

This wall memorial honors Lord William John Kerr. It is located in St Andrew's Church in Farnham, Surrey.

Who Was William John Kerr?

William John Kerr was a significant figure in British history. He was known for his military career and his role as a peer. A peer is a member of the nobility, often with a seat in the House of Lords. This was an important part of the British government.

His Family Life

William John Kerr had a large family. He married Elizabeth Fortescue in 1762. They had nine children together.

Marriage and Children

Elizabeth, Marchioness of Lothian (1745–1780), William Kerr's wife.

William John Kerr married Elizabeth Fortescue on July 15, 1762. Elizabeth was the daughter of Chichester Fortescue. They had many children, building a large family together.

• William Kerr, 6th Marquess of Lothian (born 1763 – died 1824)
• Lady Elizabeth Kerr (born 1765 – died 1822), who married John Dormer, 10th Baron Dormer
• Lady Caroline Sidney Kerr (born 1766 – died 1829)
• Lady Mary Kerr (born 1767 – died 1791), who married General Hon. Frederick St John
• Lady Louisa Kerr (born 1768 – died 1819), who married Arthur Atherley
• Lady Harriet Kerr (born 1770; died young)
• Lord Charles Beauchamp Kerr (born 1775 – died 1816), who married Elizabeth Crump
• Vice-Admiral Lord Mark Robert Kerr (born 1776 – died 1840), who married Charlotte Macdonnell
• Maj.-Gen. Lord Robert Kerr (born 1780 – died 1843), who married Mary Gilbert

A Life in the Military

William John Kerr was a general in the British Army. This means he held a very high rank. He was involved in several different military units during his career. Being a general meant he was a leader of soldiers. His military service was a big part of his life.

Legacy

William John Kerr lived a long life, serving his country as a soldier and as a peer. He passed on his title to his son, William Kerr, 6th Marquess of Lothian. His family continued to be an important part of British society.