Russell Family Titles: Earls and Dukes of Bedford
Earls of Bedford (Russell Family)
- 1st Earl: John Russell (c. 1485–1555)
- 2nd Earl: Francis Russell (1527–1585)
- 3rd Earl: Edward Russell (1572–1627)
- 4th Earl: Francis Russell (1593–1641)
- 5th Earl: William Russell (1616–1700)
Dukes of Bedford (Russell Family)
- 1st Duke: William Russell (1616–1700), elevated in 1694
- 2nd Duke: Wriothesley Russell (1680–1711)
- 3rd Duke: Wriothesley Russell (1708–1732)
- 4th Duke: John Russell (1710–1771)
- 5th Duke: Francis Russell (1765–1802)
- 6th Duke: John Russell (1766–1839)
- 7th Duke: Francis Russell (1788–1861)
- 8th Duke: William Russell (1809–1872)
- 9th Duke: Francis Charles Hastings Russell (1819–1891)
- 10th Duke: George William Francis Sackville Russell (1852–1893)
- 11th Duke: Herbrand Arthur Russell (1858–1940)
- 12th Duke: Hastings William Sackville Russell (1888–1953)
- 13th Duke: John Ian Robert Russell (1917–2002)
- 14th Duke: Henry Robin Ian Russell (1940–2003)
- 15th Duke: Andrew Ian Henry Russell (b. 1962)
Legacy and Lineage
The Russell family has held the title of Duke of Bedford since 1694, with roots tracing back to the Tudor period. Their contributions to English politics, land reform, and civic life have shaped centuries of history. The family seat remains at Woburn Abbey, Bedfordshire, and their legacy continues through the Marquess of Tavistock, heir apparent to the current Duke.
