Charles Robartes, 2nd Earl of Radnor facts for kids

Charles Bodvile Robartes, 2nd Earl of Radnor

Charles Bodvile Robartes (1660–1723) was an important English politician. He served as a Member of Parliament (MP) in the House of Commons. Later, he inherited the title of Earl of Radnor. For a few years, he was known as Viscount Bodmin. He was also a member of the Privy Council and a Fellow of the Royal Society.

His Family and Early Life

Charles was the son of Robert Robartes, Viscount Bodmin. His grandfather was John Robartes, the first Earl of Radnor. Charles's mother, Sarah Bodvel, was known for her beauty. Her family had some legal issues over an inheritance. This involved the Robartes family in long court cases.

Becoming a Politician

In 1679, Charles Robartes was elected as an MP for Bossiney. He held this position until 1681. When his father passed away in 1682, Charles received the title Viscount Bodmin. This was a courtesy title, meaning he used it because he was the heir to an earldom.

He was elected as an MP again in 1685, this time for Cornwall. Later that same year, his grandfather died. Charles then inherited the title of Baron Robartes and became the second Earl of Radnor. This meant he moved from the House of Commons to the House of Lords.

Charles Robartes married Elizabeth Cutler in 1689

Marriage and Estates

In 1689, Earl Radnor married Elizabeth Cutler. Elizabeth was the daughter of Sir John Cutler. She brought important estates with her, like Harewood and Wimpole Hall. Their marriage was a true love match. It was not fully supported by her father. Everyone said they were very happy together. However, they did not have any children.

Elizabeth passed away in 1697. Because they had no children, her estates went back to her father's family. They went to her cousins, the Boulter family.

Important Public Roles

Charles Robartes held several important positions during his life. He was a member of the Privy Council. This group advises the King or Queen. He was also the Lord Warden of the Stannaries. This role looked after tin mining in Cornwall. He served as the Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall. This person represents the King in the county. He was also the Custos Rotulorum of Cornwall, which meant he was in charge of the county's records. Finally, he was the Treasurer of the Chamber.

Succession

When Charles Robartes passed away, his nephew, Henry Robartes, became the third Earl of Radnor. Henry died in Paris in 1741 and did not marry. The title of Earl of Radnor ended when the fourth earl, John Robartes, passed away in 1757. John was the eldest son of Francis Robartes, who was Charles's uncle.

See also

• List of deserters from James II to William of Orange

Images for kids

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  The dedication of Joel Gascoyne's map of Cornwall, 1699