The Viscount Willingdon - Freeman Freeman-Thomas, Viscount of Ratton
13th Governor General of Canada
Term:
1926-1931
Born:
September 12, 1866 Ratton, England
Died:
August 12, 1941 London, England
Lord Willingdon was the first Governor General chosen to represent only the Sovereign in Canada, and not the British government. In fact, he was not a favoured candidate of the Conservative British Government for the position. Willingdon's name was added to the list at the request of King George V, who knew him well.
It was Canadian Prime Minister and Liberal Party leader MacKenzie King who chose Willingdon, who also happened to be a Liberal, as Governor General. Willingdon had been a British Member of Parliament (1900-10), and for a time was Lord of the Treasury. He also served as Governor of Bombay (1913-18) and Madras (1919-24) before coming to Canada in 1926.
As Governor General, Lord Willingdon encouraged Canadians to develop their land and their culture. He established the Willingdon Arts Competition (1928) for rewarding excellence in music, drama, painting and sculpture. He also hosted a Royal Visit of the Prince of Wales (later Edward VIII) and Prince George (later King George VI), who came to Canada in 1927 to help the nation celebrate its Diamond Jubilee.
After his term of Governor General, Willingdon became Viceroy to India (1931-36). He was later created the Marquess of Willingdon of Ratton.
