Prince William, who recently served as an usher at his friend the Duke of Westminster's wedding to Olivia Henson in Chester, is making headlines for his unique royal title.
The Prince of Wales, spotlighted for his solo appearance at Hugh Grosvenor's wedding, holds a different title in Chester: the Earl of Chester.
In 2022, King Charles III announced that his eldest son William would be both Prince of Wales and Earl of Chester. As heir to the throne, William automatically assumes the title Earl of Chester, while Princess Catherine is the Countess of Chester. The Earldom of Chester was historically one of the most powerful earldoms in medieval England.
Although the titles have not merged, both have been given to the heir apparent of the English throne since the late fourteenth century.
The Earldom of Chester was first created in 1067 and initially held by Gerbod the Fleming. It was recreated in 1071 for Hugh D’Avranches, and again in 1254 and 1264. In 1301, it was recreated for Edward of Caernarvon, who became King Edward II in 1307. In 1312, Edward Plantagenet, the future King Edward III, was made Earl of Chester. Since then, all Princes of Wales have also held the title of Earl of Chester.
William's title drew attention following his appearance at the Duke of Westminster's event at Chester Cathedral. The Duke of Westminster, 33, is godfather to Prince George, who could not attend the wedding due to it being a school day. The Princess of Wales, currently receiving treatment for cancer, was also absent.
