Lord George Bentinck Autographs, Memorabilia & Collectibles

Lord William George Frederick Cavendish-Scott Bentinck (1802-1848) was born into the prominent Bentinck family. He was educated privately and grew up at the family estate of Welbeck Abbey. In 1818 George and his older brother John joined the army but personal conflicts derailed his military career. Following the death of his eldest brother Henry, Marques of Titchfield, he became the Marques of Titchfield. In 1828 he ran unopposed as Member of Parliament for King's Lynn, a position he held until his death. Bentinck first became prominent in politics in 1846 when he, with Disraeli, led the protectionist opposition to the repeal of the Corn Laws. Until he rose to speak against their repeal, he had not spoken a word in eighteen years in Parliament. Although Bentinck and Disraeli did not prevent the repeal of the Corn Laws, they succeeded in forcing Peel's resignation some weeks later over the Irish Coercion Bill. The Conservative Party broke in half and George became leader of the party in the House of Commons; however, due to his support of Jewish emancipation was unpopular, he resigned the position in 1848 and was succeeded by the Marquis of Granby. On September 21, 1848 Bentinck left his father's home at Welbeck Abbey at 3p.m., intending to walk six miles through "The Dukeries" to Thoresby Hall to dine with Charles Pierrepont, 2nd Earl Manvers. A search party was sent to look for him when he did not arrive at Thoresby and his body was ultimately found at 9 p.m.