Politician. Born George William Finch-Hatton at Kirby Hall, Northamptonshire. He succeeded to his title in 1826, and most sources refer to him as the Earl of Winchelsea. An ardent Protestant and one of the few English noblemen to identify with the Irish Orange Party. The originator of 'Kentish Fire' in parliament, which means 'derisive cheering'.
He passionately opposed the Catholic Relief Bill of 1829, and wrote a letter criticising the Duke of Wellington, who challenged him to a duel. This took place at Battersea Fields on 21 March 1829, but it seems that the seconds had negotiated an acceptable conclusion to the affair: the duke fired; Winchelsea fired; they both missed; Winchelsea presented a pre-prepared letter of apology.
Credit for this entry to: Alan Patient of www.plaquesoflondon.co.uk
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