William Bentinck, 2nd Duke of
Portland, (1709-1762)
Born 1 March 1709
Died 1 May 1762
Buried Westminster Abbey
Married 11 July 1734 London
Lady Margaret Cavendish Harley, daughter of Edward
Cavendish Harley, 2nd Earl of Oxford, 2nd Earl of Mortimer
and Lady Henrietta Cavendish Holles
Born 11 February 1714 London
Died 7 July 1785 Bulstrode Park
It was said he was the handsomest man in England. He was styled Viscount
Woodstock until 1716, from then on he was Marquess of Titchfield until
in 1726 he followed his father as 2nd Duke of
Portland.
His marriage in 1734 to Lady Margaret Cavendish Harley brought him
valuable property including Welbeck Abbey. He was nominated K. G. 20 March
1741 and as such installed on 21 April 1741. In 1753 he was made a Harleian
Trustee of the British Museum which he remained until his
death.
He was retiring, unambitious, inconspicuous and, as such, a much less
remarkable personality than his wife. Yet he contributed to the cheerful
and harmonious atmosphere of Bulstrode for he was also wise, gentle and
kind.
Source: Leo van de Pas |
