Charles Townshend, 3rd Viscount Townshend facts for kids

Arms of Townshend: Azure, a chevron ermine between three escallops argent

Charles Townshend, 3rd Viscount Townshend (born July 11, 1700 – died March 12, 1764) was an important British politician. From 1723 to 1738, he was known as The Lord Lynn. He served in the House of Commons, which is like one part of today's Parliament, before moving to the House of Lords, another part of Parliament.

Early Life and Education

Charles Townshend was the oldest son of Charles Townshend, 2nd Viscount Townshend. His mother was Elizabeth Pelham.

He went to Eton, a famous school, and then studied at King's College, Cambridge in 1718. After his studies, he went on a "Grand Tour". This was a long trip around Europe that young noblemen often took to learn about art, history, and culture.

Political Career and Public Service

Portrait of Ethelreda Harrison by Jean-Baptiste van Loo. n.d.

Charles Townshend started his political career in 1722. He became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Great Yarmouth. An MP is a person chosen to represent a specific area in the House of Commons.

Just one year later, in 1723, he moved to the House of Lords. This happened because he was given his father's family title, Baron Townshend, early. Since his father was already Lord Townshend, Charles was called Lord Lynn. This name came from the family's connection to Lynn Regis.

Charles Townshend held several important roles:

• From 1723 to 1727, he was a Lord of the bedchamber. This meant he was an assistant to the King.
• From 1730 to 1738, he was the Master of the Jewel Office. This job put him in charge of the King's royal jewels and plate.
• Also in 1730, he became the Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk and Custos Rotulorum of Norfolk. These were important local positions. A Lord Lieutenant represents the King in a county, and a Custos Rotulorum is the chief keeper of the county's records.

In 1738, Charles inherited all of his father's titles and lands.

He also did good work for his community. At Raynham, he built and supported a charity school. This school provided clothes and education for thirty boys and twenty girls. The girls were also taught how to spin.

Family Life

On May 29, 1723, Charles Townshend married Audrey (Etheldreda) Harrison. She was the only daughter and heir of Edward Harrison.

Charles Townshend passed away on March 12, 1764. He had several children who survived him:

• George (1724–1807), who later became a Marquess.
• Charles (1725–1767).
• Audrey (died 1781), who married Robert Orme.