Charles D’Aguilar
(1821–1912)
10 February 1862

Volume 6, page 35, sitting number 7012.

General Sir Charles D’Aguilar died on 2 November 1912, aged 91, at 4 Clifton Crescent, Folkestone.

A full obituary appeared in the Folkestone, Hythe, Sandgate & Cheriton Herald (9 November 1912). ‘Sir Charles D’Aguilar was an honoured resident of Folkestone of many years standing, and though not coming much before the public in local affairs, his benefactions in all charitable institutions were numerous. He was a generous supporter of various good works, and in company with Lady D’Aguilar devoted much of his time to the cause of charity.

‘The deceased gentleman was a son of Lieut.-General Sir George D’Aguilar, being born on 14th May, 1821. He was a true type of the fine old English gentleman, and soldier to the backbone. Educated at Woolwich, he entered the Royal Artillery in 1838. He became Military Secretary and Commander of the Forces in China in 1843, in which capacity he served until 1848.

‘He married Emily, daughter of the late Vice-Admiral the Hon. G. Percy, C.B., brother of the 5th Duke of Northumberland, in 1852.

‘Sir Charles served in the Crimea campaign from 1854-55. He was present at the Battle of Inkerman, where his horse was shot under him. He was at the Seige [sic] of Sevastopol, being amongst those who took part in the bombardment, and was mentioned in despatches, receiving the medal with two clasps. At the same time he became C.B., and obtained the fifth-class of the Medjedie, with the Turkish medal, as well as the brevets of major and lieutenant-colonel.

‘He also served in the Indian Mutiny. He commanded Artillery at the action near Secundra, and also the Siege and Capture of Lucknow. Sir Charles was again mentioned in despatches, receiving a medal and clasp, as well as the brevet of colonel. Sir Charles became General Commanding the Woolwich District in 1874, and held that position till 1879. In 1877 he became Lieutenant-General, and [in] 1877 Colonel Commandant of the Royal Horse Artillery. He was a member of the Travellers’ Club and the United Service Club. ‘

He left an estate valued at £40,498.