He was the only American citizen ever receiving a knighthood while many other European sovereigns conferred decorations of honor upon him .
A knighthood was conferred upon him by Queen Victoria in recognition of his courtesies to her subjects during the International Exposition .
He was the only American citizen ever receiving a knighthood , which was conferred upon him by Queen Victoria in recognition of his courtesies to her subjects during the International Exposition , while many other European sovereigns conferred decorations of honor upon him .