Charles Marsham, 1st Earl of Romney facts for kids
Charles Marsham (born 1744, died 1811) was an important British politician. He was known as Lord Romney for a while. He served in the British Parliament for many years. Later, he became the first Earl of Romney.
Contents
About Charles Marsham
Early Life and Education
Charles Marsham was born in 1744. His father was Robert Marsham, 2nd Baron Romney. Charles went to Eton College, a famous school, from 1753 to 1763. After that, he studied at Christ Church, Oxford, starting in 1763.
Inheriting Titles and Property
In 1793, Charles became the 3rd Baron Romney. This happened when his father passed away. In the same year, he also inherited large estates. These properties were on the island of St. Kitts in the Caribbean. They were known together as "Romney's."
Political Career
Serving in Parliament
Charles Marsham was a Member of Parliament (MP). This means he was elected to represent people in the British House of Commons. He first represented Maidstone from 1768 to 1774. After that, he represented Kent from 1774 to 1790.
Lord Lieutenant of Kent
From 1797 to 1808, Charles Marsham held another important role. He was the Lord Lieutenant of Kent. This job meant he was the King's official representative in the county of Kent.
Royal Visit to Mote Park
In 1799, Charles Marsham hosted King George III. The King visited his home, Moat House. During this visit, the King reviewed about six thousand Kentish Volunteers. These were local people who volunteered to serve. A special temple was built in Mote Park to remember this important event.
Family Life
Marriage and Children
Lord Romney married Lady Frances Wyndham. They got married on August 30, 1776. Lady Frances was born in 1755 and passed away in 1795.
They had two children who lived to be adults:
- Charles Marsham, 2nd Earl of Romney: Born in 1777, he later became the next Earl.
- Lady Frances Marsham: Born in 1778, she married Sir John Buchanan Riddell in 1805. They had children together.
Lady Romney died in January 1795 when she was 39 years old. Lord Romney passed away in March 1811 at the age of 66. His son, Charles, took over his titles.
Achievements and Honours
Fellow of the Royal Society
In 1766, Charles Marsham was chosen as a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a special honour given to people who have made important contributions to science.
Becoming an Earl
In 1801, Charles Marsham received even higher honours. He was given the title Viscount Marsham. He was also made the Earl of Romney. These were important titles in the British nobility.
