Sir John Hobbis Harris from Wantage was a distinguished British soldier and politician who served both his country and his home county of Oxfordshire. Born in 1790, Sir John’s early life was spent in the town of Wantage where he studied law before later joining the army.
During the Napoleonic Wars, Sir John became one of Wellington’s most important aides-de-camp. He served as an aide at numerous battles, including the Battle of Waterloo and the sieges of Ciudad Rodrigo and Badajoz. His bravery and leadership were rewarded with rapid promotion, as he rose to become an extremely influential Lieutenant General in 1813.
In 1815, Sir John returned to civilian life in England and devoted himself to politics in Oxfordshire. He was elected High Sheriff of Oxfordshire in 1817, a position that allowed him to work closely with communities throughout the county. During his tenure as High Sheriff, he introduced reforms which improved education access for local children and helped alleviate poverty within rural communities. He also established several charities which provided financial support for those affected by disease or unemployment.
Sir John Hobbis Harris was well respected by his peers both for his military accomplishments and dedication to public service. In 1830 he was knighted by King William IV for his ‘long and faithful services’; a fitting recognition of a man who had served both Britain and Oxfordshire selflessly throughout his lifetime. On top of this recognition, Sir John Hobbis Harris is remembered fondly today by locals who proudly hail him as one of Wantage’s most esteemed sons.
