James Alexander Seton (c. 1816 – 2 June 1845) is primarily known for being the last British person killed in a duel on English soil.
Here are some key details about him:
Death in a Duel: Seton was fatally wounded in a duel against Lieutenant Henry Hawkey of the Royal Marines on May 20, 1845, near Gosport, Hampshire. He died from an infected gunshot wound on June 2, 1845.

MCW73

September 26, 2025

Hiking

The Cause of the Duel: The duel was fought over a point of honor following a public altercation. Seton had been pursuing Isabella Hawkey, the wife of Lieutenant Hawkey, and was subsequently insulted and physically attacked (kicked) by Hawkey at a ball. Seton then issued the formal challenge.
Background:
Born around 1816 in Fordingbridge, Hampshire.
The son of Colonel James Seton and Margaret Findlater.

MCW73

September 26, 2025

Hiking

He was of Scottish descent, related to the Earls of Dunfermline, and his family had connections to the West Indies (his grandfather, Vice-Admiral James Seton, was a governor of St Vincent).
He was a wealthy man who did not need to work, thanks to inherited money.
He briefly served as a cavalry officer, attaining the rank of cornet, but his short military career ended years before the duel. He is sometimes styled "Captain Seton" in histories of the event.

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James Alexander Seton – Great Bridge, Fordingbridge loop from Fordingbridge

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Informations

Elevation 70 m

Weather

Tuesday 5 May

15°C

8°C

19 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h

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Location: Fordingbridge, New Forest, Hampshire, South East England, England, United Kingdom

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James Alexander Seton

#1.

James Alexander Seton – Great Bridge, Fordingbridge loop from Fordingbridge

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