Duke of Ursel
| House of Ursel | |
|---|---|
| noble family | |
 |
|
| Country |
 Kingdom of Belgium
|
| Titles |
|
| Founded | 15th century |
| Founder | Gaspar Schetz |
| Current head | Stéphane, 10th Duke of Ursel |
| Ethnicity | Germany |
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United Kingdom of the Netherlands
d' Ursel is the name of an important old Belgian noble family. The chief of the House is styled the Duke of Ursel, others are Count d'Ursel.
The Ursel family roots are in Schmalkalden, Germany, and it originally had the name Schetzenbergh. In the late 15th century, some members moved to Hasselt and Antwerp. Amongst the family members we find Gaspard II Schetz, the Lord of Grobbendonck, who married Catherine van Ursel, daughter of Lancelot II of Ursel. The three daughters of Lancelot II died without heirs, and by request of Barbe of Ursel, Conrad III Schetz was adopted by her. His descendants carrying the name 'van Ursel'.The ancestors of Lancelot II came from Antwerpen, and held important offices. Conrad Albert, Baron of Wesemael and Lord of Highene was created First Duke of Ursel by imperial decree of Charles VI in 19 aug, 1716 and later he was created First Duke of Hoboken on 24 april 1717.
During the centuries the family had the privilege of beeing the hereditary grand veneur and Haut Forestier of Flanders (Forestarius), a ceremonial function at court of the Count of Flanders.
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Wikipedia