William Vane, 1st Duke of Cleveland facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Duke of Cleveland
|
|
|---|---|
William Vane wearing the parliamentary robes of an earl. By Arthur William Devis, 1810.
|
|
| Lord-Lieutenant of County Durham | |
| In office 1792–1842 |
|
| Monarch | |
| Preceded by | The Earl of Darlington |
| Succeeded by | The Marquess of Londonderry |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
William Harry Vane
27 July 1766 |
| Died | 29 January 1842 (aged 75) St James's Square, Westminster, London |
| Nationality | British |
| Spouses |
Lady Catherine Powlett
(m. 1787; died 1807)Elizabeth Russell
(m. 1813) |
| Children | 8 |
| Parents |
|
| Alma mater | Christ Church, Oxford |
William Henry Vane, the 1st Duke of Cleveland, was an important British landowner and politician. He was born on July 27, 1766, and passed away on January 29, 1842. During his life, he held several important titles. He was known as Viscount Barnard when he was young. Later, he became the Earl of Darlington, then the Marquess of Cleveland, and finally the Duke of Cleveland. He was also honored as a Knight of the Garter (KG).
Contents
Early Life and Education
William Henry Vane was born into a noble family. His father was Henry Vane, the 2nd Earl of Darlington. His mother was Margaret Lowther. His grandmother, Lady Grace FitzRoy, was related to King Charles II. This connection meant his family had royal ties.
He was baptized with the names William Harry, which he later changed to William Henry. He received his education at Christ Church, Oxford, a famous university.
A Life in Politics
William Vane began his political career as a Member of Parliament (MP). He represented the area of Totnes from 1788 to 1790. After that, he served as MP for Winchelsea until 1792.
In 1792, he inherited his father's title and became the Earl of Darlington. This meant he joined the House of Lords, which is part of the British Parliament. He also took over his father's role as Lord Lieutenant of County Durham. This was a significant local leadership position, and he held it for the rest of his life.
Rising Through the Ranks
William Vane continued to gain more important titles. In 1827, he was made the Marquess of Cleveland. This title had been held by his ancestors before. He played a role in important national events, like carrying the Third Sword at King William IV's coronation in 1831.
His highest honor came in 1833 when he was made the Duke of Cleveland. He also received the title of Baron Raby. In 1839, he was given the prestigious honor of being made a Knight of the Garter. This is one of the oldest and most respected orders of knighthood in Britain.
His promotions were sometimes discussed by others. People noted that he gained higher titles after giving up his influence over certain voting districts.
Family Life
William Vane married his cousin, Lady Catherine Powlett, in 1787. They had eight children together:
- Henry, who later became the 2nd Duke of Cleveland.
- Lady Louisa Catherine Barbara Vane.
- Lord William Vane, who later became the 3rd Duke of Cleveland.
- Lady Caroline Vane.
- Lady Augusta Henrietta Vane.
- Lady Arabella Vane.
- Lord Harry Vane, who later became the 4th Duke of Cleveland.
- Lady Laura Vane.
Lady Catherine passed away in 1807. William Vane then married Elizabeth Russell in 1813. They did not have any children together.
William Vane died in London in January 1842, at the age of 75. He was buried in Staindrop, County Durham. His eldest son, Henry, inherited his title and became the 2nd Duke of Cleveland.
Images for kids
-
William Vane wearing the parliamentary robes of an earl. By Arthur William Devis, 1810.
