Charles Cornwallis, 2nd Baron Cornwallis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Lord Cornwallis
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| In office 1660–1662 |
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| Preceded by | Frederick Cornwallis |
| Succeeded by | Charles Cornwallis |
Charles Cornwallis, 2nd Baron Cornwallis of Eye (born 1632, died 1673) was an important English landowner and politician. He was a member of the House of Commons from 1660 to 1662. After this, he became a Baron when he inherited his father's title.
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Who Was Charles Cornwallis?
Charles Cornwallis was born in Culford, Suffolk, England. He was baptised on April 19, 1632. His father was Sir Frederick Cornwallis, 1st Baron Cornwallis. His mother was Elizabeth Ashburnham. Charles's uncle was John Ashburnham.
Growing Up in a Royalist Family
Charles's parents spent a lot of time in London. His father was a Royalist, meaning he supported King Charles I. He was also an Equerry, a special assistant, to the King. Charles's mother was a Lady-in-Waiting to the Queen, Queen Henrietta Maria.
Because his parents were busy at Court, Charles and his three brothers and sisters grew up at Culford Hall. They were raised by their grandmother, Lady Jane. She was married to her second husband, Sir Nathaniel Bacon. Culford Hall was a big house built by Lady Jane's father-in-law, Sir Nicholas Bacon. This house later became home to the Earls of Cornwallis.
Charles Cornwallis's Political Life
In April 1660, Charles Cornwallis was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Eye. This was for a special meeting of Parliament called the Convention Parliament.
Becoming a Knight and a Baron
On April 23, 1661, he was made a Knight of the Bath. This is a special honour given by the King. In 1661, he was again elected as an MP for Eye. This time it was for the Cavalier Parliament. He served until 1662.
In 1662, his father passed away. Charles then inherited his father's title and became the 2nd Baron Cornwallis. This meant he moved from the House of Commons to the House of Lords.
Role as a Magistrate
After becoming a Baron, Charles also became a J.P. in 1662. This meant he was a local judge or magistrate. As a county magistrate, he helped oversee a legal process during the Lowestoft Witch Trial.
Charles Cornwallis passed away at the age of 41. He was buried in Culford.
Family Life
When he was 19, Charles Cornwallis married Margaret Playsted. She was the daughter of Sir Thomas Playsted. Charles and Margaret had eleven children together. Sadly, their first two sons died young. Their third son, Charles, inherited the title after his father.
Charles Cornwallis is buried under a special monument in St. Mary's Church in Culford. This church was built by the father of his daughter-in-law Elizabeth, Sir Stephen Fox.
