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5th Duke of Grafton 1844-63 Henry, 5th Duke, was an army officer and politician. When in residence at Wakefield Lodge, he kept entirely to one room, which he insisted on cleaning himself. Fanatical in matters of religion, he practically devoted his whole life to church-going, and that he might walk in the shade all the way from Euston to Barnham, he planted an avenue of oak trees. To him such accessories of civilization as public-houses and inns were an utter abomination. He had no interest in racing or hunting, and the dynasty established by the two Dukes was carried on by others, breeding the descendants of their famous mares and horses. There are numerous references in the Estate records and the Estate Charity Book on his generosity to local communities. He was a strong supporter of the building of local schools and chapels, and the restoration of parish churches. He often funded a major part of the associated costs - sometimes all of it. He died on March 26th 1863 aged 73, and was succeeded by his son William Henry. |
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