Grafton, Dukes Of
GRAFTON, DUKES OF. The English dukes of Grafton are descended from HENRY FITZROY (1663-1690), the natural son of Charles II. by Barbara Villiers (countess of Castlemaine and duchess of Cleveland). In 1672 he was married to the daughter and heiress of the earl of Arlington and created earl of Euston; in 1675 he was created duke of Grafton. He was brought up as a sailor, and saw military service at the siege of Luxemburg in 1684. At James II. 's coronation he was lord high constable. In the rebellion of the duke of Monmouth he commanded the royal troops in Somersetshire; but later he acted with Churchill (duke of Marlborough), and joined William of Orange against the king. He died of a wound received at the storming of Cork, while leading William's forces, being succeeded as 2nd duke by his son Charles (1682-1757).
Note - this article incorporates content from Encyclopaedia Britannica, Eleventh Edition, (1910-1911)
