Henry Birchenough

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Sir Henry Birchenough, 1st Baronet, GCMG (7 March 1853–12 May 1937) was an English businessman and public servant.

Birchenough was born in Macclesfield, Cheshire, and was educated at University College, London. He joined the family silk business in his home town. After the South African War, the British Government sent him to South Africa as Special Trade Commissioner to enquire into prospects for British trade in the country. For this he was appointed Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG). He became a director of the British South Africa Company in 1905 and soon became prominent in the company, being knighted as Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG) in 1916 for services to Rhodesia. He also continued his public service, working with the Board of Trade during the First World War and then with the Ministry of Reconstruction. For these services he was created a Baronet in the 1920 New Year Honours. He was promoted to Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Michael and St George (GCMG) in 1935.

Birchenough had two daughters, but no sons, and so the baronetcy became extinct on his death.

[edit] References

• Obituary, The Times, 13 May 1937