Lord Adolphus FitzClarence | |
|---|---|
,_GCH,_ADC,_RN,_as_a_Young_Naval_Officer_-_1449352_-_National_Trust.jpg) Anonymous portrait, c. 1823–1824, from The Courts, Holt | |
| Born | 18 February 1802 Bushy Park, Teddington, London, England |
| Died | 17 May 1856 (aged 54) Newburgh Priory, Coxwold, North Yorkshire, England |
| Buried | |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service | Royal Navy |
| Years of service | 1813–1856 |
| Rank | Rear admiral |
| Commands | |
| Battles / wars | |
| Relations |
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Rear-Admiral Lord Adolphus FitzClarence GCH ADC (18 February 1802 – 17 May 1856) was a British Royal Navy officer and illegitimate son of Prince William, the future William IV, and his mistress Dorothea Jordan. FitzClarence joined the navy in 1813. In the following year he joined a fourth rate which saw service in the War of 1812, including in the unsuccessful blockade and chase of USS Constitution. FitzClarence saw frequent service in the Mediterranean Sea. Coming under the patronage of Rear-Admiral Sir Thomas Fremantle, FitzClarence received further naval education from Commander William Henry Smyth and served in the Ionian Islands upholding British neutrality in the Greek War of Independence.
FitzClarence was promoted to commander in 1823 and in quick succession commanded two brig-sloops in the North Sea, before being promoted to captain at the end of the year. His rapid rise through the ranks was brought about by the influence of his father. After another period serving in the Mediterranean, FitzClarence was employed escorting dignitaries, such as George Ramsay, 9th Earl of Dalhousie, to and from their posts abroad. He spent time in India, Canada, and off Lisbon, the latter in response to the outbreak of the Liberal Wars.
In 1830 FitzClarence's father was crowned king. In quick succession FitzClarence was given command of the royal yacht HMY Royal George, created a Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Guelphic Order, and appointed Groom of the Robes. He was only occasionally called to captain Royal George. When his father died in 1837, FitzClarence's cousin Victoria took the throne and, to his surprise, allowed FitzClarence to continue in command of the royal yacht, which was replaced with HMY Victoria and Albert. He commanded the new yacht on trips for Victoria and her family, including fleet reviews and diplomatic visits to France. FitzClarence retired from the Royal Navy upon being promoted to rear-admiral in 1853 and died, unmarried, three years later.