Army officer. Made his military reputation in China. Achieved lasting fame through his death at the siege of Khartoum.
His name, and his marching band (which performs annually at the Whitehall statue) speak of a strong Scottish connection but Wikipedia informs: "Gordon grew up in England, Ireland, Scotland, and the Ionian Islands (which were under British rule until 1864) as his father was moved from post to post. He was educated at Fullands School in Taunton, Taunton School, and the Royal Military Academy, Woolwich."
Gordon's School near Woking was founded by public subscription, at the express wish of Queen Victoria, as the National Memorial to General Gordon. At the school is a statue, showing Gordon atop a camel - quite something.
The National Archive confirms that what is now known as Gordon Hospital was originally named the Western Hospital for Fistula, Piles and other Diseases of the Rectum. In 1886, as a memorial to him, it was renamed the Gordon Hospital for Fistula, Piles and other Diseases of the Rectum. Actually, we don't think 'Western' was the word that needed changing in that name.
