Overview

Charles Henry Gordon-Lennox (19 September 1929 – 1 September 2017) was an English peer and prominent landowner. He held several hereditary dukedoms and served in ceremonial county roles in West Sussex. Over a long life he acted as guardian of family properties and local civic institutions, carrying responsibilities typical of a senior aristocratic figure in modern Britain.

Names, titles and succession

Born into the Gordon-Lennox family, he was styled Lord Settrington until 1935 and thereafter used the courtesy title Earl of March and Kinrara until he succeeded to the dukedoms in 1989. His formal style included several ducal ranks: Duke of Richmond, Duke of Lennox, Duke of Aubigny and Duke of Gordon. These combined titles reflect a long lineage and a mixture of historic English, Scottish and continental connections within one family.

Public roles and local service

He carried out public duties in West Sussex for many years. He was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant in 1975 and served in that capacity until 1990, when he became Lord Lieutenant of West Sussex, the monarch's personal representative in the county, a position he held until 1994. In these roles he supported civic life, local charities and formal ceremonies.

Goodwood and landholding

As head of the family he oversaw the Goodwood estate, a large country property that includes agricultural land and several well-known sporting venues such as the racecourse and motor circuit. The estate has been associated with the Dukes of Richmond for centuries and under successive dukes has combined private residence with public-facing events and conservation of historic buildings and landscapes.

Legacy and succession

On his death in 2017 he was succeeded in the dukedoms by his son, who became the 11th Duke of Richmond. The estate and its activities have continued to evolve, balancing heritage stewardship with public access. For further information about the family's history and the estate's present-day activities see additional resources.

Notable facts

  • Born 1929, died 1 September 2017.
  • Styled Lord Settrington until 1935, then Earl of March and Kinrara until 1989.
  • Deputy Lieutenant of West Sussex (1975–1990); Lord Lieutenant (1990–1994).
  • Headed the family that owns the historic Goodwood estate, a focal point for regional sport and heritage.