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Read moreLearn about the fascinating founders of Milford Haven, find out how the street names we’ve come to know and love came to be. Plus, how Charles Greville, William Hamilton and Lord Horatio Nelson all had something in common.
To begin with, let’s talk about Charles Greville (The town’s Greville Road and Charles Street are named after him).
Charles was the son of Francis Greville, the 1st Earl of Warwick and Elizabeth Hamilton. Charles worked in a variety of jobs and in one of them met a lady called Emma Hart. Emma was a beautiful lady and Charles fell in love with her instantly and took her on as a mistress. Emma and Charles were together for a while, however Charles realised that he needed a richer wife to replenish his finances. And as a result of this, Emma then became a problem.
Charles managed to persuade his wealthy uncle, William Hamilton, the founder of Milford, to take Emma off of his hands. William and Emma fell in love at first sight and were married in September 1791, when Emma was 26 and William was 60. They were happily married for many years. Due to this Charles was very grateful towards William and decided to help him with his town.
To help him with his town, Charles invited some of the Quaker Whalers from Nantucket to Milford. The first Quaker whaler to arrive was Samuel Starbuck and Priory Lodge was also built for him to live in. Once Samuel had migrated to Milford Haven, he wrote back to Nantucket and convinced them to visit too. This is how Lord Horatio Nelson became aware of Marvellous Milford.
Lord Nelson was one of the most successful naval commanders in our history and ended up having an affair with Lady Emma Hamilton! Lady Emma longed for children however William was too old for that. So Emma fell in love with Lord Nelson and ended up having a baby with him whom she called Horatia.
So, these are some of the fascinating founders of our town Milford Haven!
Download the Heritage Walking Trails leaflet >
Darllenwch straeon yr Hafan Hanesyddol yn Gymraeg >
Other Historic Haven stories
These stories have been researched and written by the pupils of Milford Haven School, who have used their creativity to tell the stories of Milford Haven’s history in their own words.
Get walking
Milford Haven has a range of fantastic walks for all abilities. Enjoy panoramic views over the historic Milford Haven Waterway, admire the boats in Milford Marina, get back to nature on our woodland walks or even join on to the famous Pembrokeshire Coast Path. Explore Milford Haven on foot and you won't be disappointed!
Tŷ Hotel Milford Waterfront
Part of The Celtic Collection, the 100 bed hotel opened in 2022 & also boasts a restaurant, bar, private dining area and activity suite.
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