Sir Andrew Wauchope (8 December 1846 – 11 December 1900) was a Scottish landowner, British Army officer, and Conservative Party politician. He served as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Kincardineshire from 1885 until his death in 1900 and was killed in action during the Second Boer War.
Early life and education
Andrew Wauchope was born into the Scottish Wauchope family, which held the baronetcy of Niddrie Marischal. He was educated at Eton College and subsequently attended the University of Oxford, where he completed a degree in Classics.
Military career
Wauchope joined the British Army, receiving a commission in the 6th (Inniskilling) Dragoons. He served in various colonial postings, including in India and Egypt, and rose to the rank of colonel. With the outbreak of the Second Boer War (1899–1902), he volunteered for service in South Africa. On 11 December 1900, while commanding a column of mounted troops at the Battle of Magersfontein, Wauchope was mortally wounded and died on the battlefield.
Political career
In 1885, Wauchope was elected as the Conservative MP for Kincardineshire, a seat he retained through successive elections until his death. In Parliament, he was known for his support of agricultural interests and for advocating policies favorable to the Scottish landed gentry. He also served on parliamentary committees related to defense and colonial affairs.
Personal life
Wauchope married Lady Margaret Campbell, daughter of the 5th Earl of Cawdor, in 1878. The couple had three children. Following his death, his eldest son succeeded to the family baronetcy.
Legacy
Sir Andrew Wauchope is remembered for his dual service as a military officer and parliamentarian. His death at Magersfontein was noted in contemporary press as a notable loss of a distinguished public servant. Memorials to him were erected in his native Kincardineshire and at his family estate.
References
- Hansard, Parliamentary Debates, 1885‑1900.
- The London Gazette, military appointments and promotions (1860‑1900).
- Obituary, The Times (12 December 1900).
- "Sir Andrew Wauchope", Dictionary of National Biography, 1912 edition.