Murray Beauclerk, the 14th Duke of St Albans, has passed away. His Grace held the ancient and hereditary title of Grand Falconer of England, a position he inherited and which has been associated with his family for centuries. The role of Grand Falconer historically involved significant duties and privileges, including the right to a side of venison from Richmond Park annually.
According to reports, this hereditary right and the associated role of Grand Falconer were altered during the premiership of Tony Blair. The changes implemented by the government effectively removed the Duke’s hereditary stewardship of this ancient office. While the specific details of the legislative or executive actions taken are not elaborated upon in the provided text, it is indicated that the removal of these privileges was a significant event for the Duke.
The passing of Murray Beauclerk marks the end of an era for the Dukedom of St Albans and its traditional roles. The title of Duke of St Albans was created in 1684 for Charles Beauclerk, an illegitimate son of King Charles II and Nell Gwyn. The dukedom has remained in the Beauclerk family ever since.
The position of Grand Falconer of England is one of the Great Officers of State, though its active ceremonial or practical functions have evolved considerably over time. Historically, the Grand Falconer was responsible for the royal falconry and the care of the King’s falcons. The hereditary nature of this office meant that it passed down through the male line of the Beauclerk family, connecting them to a long tradition of royal service and aristocratic privilege.
The commentary from Peter Abraham, who shared the news, expresses sadness at the Duke’s passing and highlights the loss of his hereditary rights. The mention of Tony Blair’s government taking away the hereditary grand falconership and the annual venison from Richmond Park suggests a period of significant change and the curtailment of ancient aristocratic privileges. Richmond Park, a former royal hunting ground, has a long history of royal connections and land grants, and the venison entitlement was likely a tangible symbol of the Duke’s historical status.
While the exact age of the Duke of St Albans at the time of his death is not explicitly stated in this snippet, the context implies a figure of considerable age, given the hereditary nature of his titles and the historical period referenced. The Duke’s passing concludes his tenure as the 14th holder of the title, and the future of the ducal title and any remaining associated traditions will now pass to his successor. The news serves as a reminder of the continuity of noble families and the shifts in their historical roles and privileges within modern society.
Source: Peter Abraham
Peter Abraham 🎩🎩⚰️⚰️💀💀: Sad to hear of the passing of Murray Beauclerk, 14th Duke of St Albans. He was hereditary grand falconer of England before Tony Blair took it away from him along with his annual side of Venison from Richmond Park.. #breaking
— @abraham9176 May 1, 2026
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