The Churchill Connection
Francis Spencer, 1st Baron Churchill, brother of the 5th Duke of Marlborough, consolidated some of the original independent troops of yeomanry into a regiment in 1818. George Spencer-Churchill, 6th Duke of Marlborough took over the command himself in 1845, and the Churchill family continued this close personal connection with the QOOH well into the 20th century.
Blenheim Palace provided a fitting background for annual camps and spectacular full-dress parades, while the dukes gained personal prestige from their patronage of a yeomanry regiment, and the regiment benefited from their wealth and influence. It was not unusual for several Churchills to be in the regiment at the same time.
Charles Richard Spencer-Churchill, 9th Duke of Marlborough was commissioned in 1892 as a humble Cornet, and was an officer for many years, including service with the Imperial Yeomanry during the Second Boer War. He finally became Lieutenant-Colonel in command of the regiment from 1910 to 1914.
Sir Winston Churchill joined the QOOH in 1902 and remained an enthusiastic supporter for the rest of his life, having a significant influence on the fortunes of the regiment during both World Wars, and even giving it a special place of honour at his funeral. The latter's great personal friend, F.E. Smith, later 1st Lord Birkenhead joined the same regiment in 1913 and was ultimately a Major in 1921.
Read more about this topic: Queen's Own Oxfordshire Hussars
Famous quotes containing the words churchill and/or connection:
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