Benjamin Bathurst (MP for Gloucester) facts for kids

Benjamin Bathurst was an English politician who lived from 1692 to 1767. He was a Member of Parliament (MP) for a very long time. He served in the British House of Commons for 54 years, from 1713 until he passed away. He came from Lydney, a town in Gloucestershire, England.

Early Life and Family Background

Benjamin Bathurst was born in 1692. His father, also named Benjamin Bathurst, was also an MP. His mother was Frances Apsley. Benjamin's family was involved in important trade companies of the time. These included the Royal African Company and the East India Company.

Education and Inheritance

Benjamin went to Eton College in 1699. This is a famous school in England. Later, when he was 16, he went to Trinity College, Oxford in 1708. When his father died in 1704, Benjamin inherited family lands. These lands were in Lydney, Gloucestershire, and Mixbury, Oxfordshire.

A Long Career in Parliament

Benjamin Bathurst was a Member of Parliament (MP) for over five decades. An MP is a person elected to represent a group of people in the House of Commons. This is a part of the British Parliament where laws are made.

Representing Different Areas

Benjamin first became an MP in 1713. He was elected for Cirencester. This was a town where his family had a lot of influence. He was re-elected for Cirencester in 1715 and 1722.

In 1727, he moved to represent Gloucester. There was a small issue with his election, but he was officially declared the winner in 1728. He continued to represent Gloucester in 1734, 1741, and 1747.

Later, in 1754, he became the MP for Monmouth Boroughs. This was thanks to the support of the Duke of Beaufort. He was elected again for Monmouth Boroughs in 1761.

Role in Parliament

In 1763, Benjamin was given a special job. He became the Outranger of Windsor Forest. He held this position for the rest of his life. Even though he was an MP for a very long time, there are no records of him ever speaking in Parliament.

Personal Life and Achievements

Benjamin Bathurst had a large family. He was also recognized for his contributions to science.

Marriages and Children

In 1714, Benjamin married Finetta Poole. She was the daughter of Henry Poole. Together, they had 22 children! Finetta passed away in 1738.

Benjamin married again in 1741. His second wife was Catherine Whitfield. She was a widow and the daughter of a chaplain to the House of Commons. With Catherine, he had another 14 children. This means he had a total of 36 children!

Fellow of the Royal Society

On December 9, 1731, Benjamin Bathurst became a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a very old and respected group of scientists. Being a Fellow means he was recognized for his interest in science and knowledge.

Later Life and Legacy

Benjamin Bathurst passed away on November 5, 1767. He had two brothers who were also important figures. His brother Allen Bathurst became the 1st Baron Bathurst. His other brother was Peter Bathurst. Benjamin Bathurst is remembered for his long service in the British Parliament.