Henry Holroyd, 3rd Earl Of Sheffield

Henry North Holroyd, 3rd Earl of Sheffield (born 18 January 1832, died 21 April 1909), was an English nobleman and politician. He was styled Viscount Pevensey until 1876, when he succeeded to the earldom. Sheffield was involved in political and sporting activities during his lifetime.

Born in Marylebone, London, he was the second son but the eldest surviving son of George Holroyd, 2nd Earl of Sheffield, and Lady Harriet Lascelles, daughter of Henry Lascelles, 2nd Earl of Harewood. He received education at Eton College. His career included diplomatic service in Constantinople and Copenhagen. Sheffield served as a Member of Parliament for Sussex East from 1857 to 1865, representing the Conservative Party.

In 1876, upon the death of his father, he inherited the earldom and took on the responsibilities associated with the title. Sheffield was active in the sport of cricket, participating as a player in one first-class match during his youth. He is recognized as a patron of cricket, establishing a private cricket ground at Sheffield Park near Uckfield, Sussex. He organized and hosted numerous cricket matches at this venue, including contests against touring international teams, and some matches held at Sheffield Park have been classified as first-class.

He played a significant role in promoting cricket in Australia. In response to concerns about the standard of Australian cricket, Sheffield organized and financed the English cricket tour of Australia during 1891–92, captained by W. G. Grace. During his time in Australia, he donated £150 to the New South Wales Cricket Association, which was used to purchase a trophy and establish the Sheffield Shield, the premier domestic first-class cricket competition in Australia.

Sheffield also contributed to Sussex County Cricket Club, serving as its President from 1879 until 1897. His involvement with cricket and benefactions made him a notable figure within the sport.

He died in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, France, in April 1909, at the age of 77. Speculation about his personal life included rumors of homosexuality, and he remained unmarried throughout his life. Following his death, the earldom became extinct. However, he was succeeded in his junior title of Baron Sheffield, which had a special remainder allowing inheritance through female lines, by his first cousin once removed, Edward Stanley, 4th Baron Stanley of Alderley.