capacity he acted as a strong advocate for the procurement of Britain's first ironclad warship. Martin went on to become Commander-in-Chief, Mediterranean Fleet, hoisting his flag in the first-rate HMS Marlborough, in April 1860. In that role he provided important assistance during the Italian disturbances in 1860 and 1861, reformed the system of discipline in his fleet and developed a comprehensive system of manoeuvres for steam ships. Having been appointed a Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath on 28 June 1861 and promoted to full admiral on 14 November 1863, he succeeded to the baronetcy on 4 December 1863: this had been conferred on his grandfather, but passed to Martin upon the death of his cousin, Sir Henry, the 3rd Baronet. He went on to be Commander-in-Chief, Plymouth in October 1866 and was advanced to Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath on 24 May 1873. He died at his home at Upton Grey near Winchfield on 24 March 1895. Family Martin married on 24 July 1826 Honourable Anne Best, daughter of Lord Wynford. Following her death in 1836, Martin married on 21 May 1838 Sophia Elizabeth Hurt, daughter of Richard Hurt. Martin left five daughters and one son: Sir Richard Byam Martin (1841–1910), who succeeded as the 5th Baronet but died without issue when the title became extinct. Sophia Elizabeth Martin (died 27 Dec 1902) Caroline Matin Grace Martin Harriette Martin Georgiana Martin References Sources William Loney RN Career History Further reading |- |- |- |- First Sea Lords and Chiefs of the Naval Staff Royal Navy admirals Baronets in the Baronetage of Great Britain Knights Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath 1801 births 1895 deaths Lords of the Admiralty