Charles Somerset, Marquess of Worcester facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Marquess of Worcester |
|
|---|---|
| Spouse(s) | Rebecca Child |
| Issue | |
| Henry Somerset, 2nd Duke of Beaufort Lady Henrietta Somerset |
|
| Father | Henry Somerset, 1st Duke of Beaufort |
| Mother | Mary Capell |
| Born | 25 December 1660 |
| Died | 13 July 1698 (aged 37) |
Charles Somerset, Marquess of Worcester (born December 25, 1660 – died July 13, 1698) was an important English nobleman and politician. He was the oldest son of Henry Somerset, 1st Duke of Beaufort and Mary Capell. From 1667 to 1682, he was known as Lord Herbert of Raglan. After that, he became the Marquess of Worcester. He studied at Christ Church, Oxford University, starting in 1677. He earned his Master of Arts degree in 1682.
Contents
Charles Somerset's Career and Roles
Charles Somerset had a busy career, even from a young age. He took on many important roles in government and society.
Becoming a Young Royal Society Member
In June 1673, Charles Somerset was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society. This was a big deal because he was only 12 years old! He was the youngest person ever to join this famous scientific group.
Serving in Government and Military
Charles Somerset held several positions that helped manage public money. He was a Commissioner for Assessment for Brecon from 1677 to 1679. He also served in this role for Gloucestershire, Middlesex, Monmouth, and Brecon from 1689 to 1690.
He was also involved in the military. From 1682 to 1685, he was a Colonel of Militia for Bristol. He was part of the Council of Wales and the Marches from 1682 to 1689. His father was in charge of this council. In 1684, he led the Glamorgan Militia during an inspection by his father.
Charles Somerset also helped keep records for different areas. He was the Custos Rotulorum of Radnorshire from 1682 to 1689. He also served as a Deputy Lieutenant for Monmouthshire (1683–1687), Wiltshire (1683–1688), and Gloucestershire (1685–1687).
Working with the East India Company
From 1683 to 1691, he was a member of the Committee for the Honourable East India Company. This company was very powerful and traded goods from far-off lands. He also commanded a regiment of foot soldiers from 1685 to 1687.
Serving as a Member of Parliament
Charles Somerset was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Monmouthshire. He served two terms: from 1685 to 1687 and again from 1689 to 1695. As an MP, he helped make laws for England.
Charles Somerset's Family Life
Charles Somerset had a family and children. His life ended unexpectedly.
Marriage and Children
On June 6, 1682, Charles Somerset married Rebecca Child. Her father was Sir Josiah Child of Wanstead. Rebecca was also the aunt of Richard Child, 1st Earl Tylney. Charles and Rebecca had at least two children:
- Henry Somerset, 2nd Duke of Beaufort, who became his father's heir.
- Lady Henrietta Somerset, born on August 27, 1690. She passed away on August 9, 1726. She married Charles Fitzroy, 2nd Duke of Grafton on April 30, 1713. They had four sons and three daughters together.
His Passing and Legacy
Charles Somerset died in a coach accident in 1698. He was buried in Raglan. Because he passed away before his own father, his son, Henry, inherited the title of Duke when Charles's father died. Charles's wife, Rebecca, later remarried Hon John Granville in 1703.
