Edmund Halsey facts for kids

Edmund Halsey (died 1729) was a successful British businessman and politician. He started with very little money but became the owner of one of London's biggest breweries. He also served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for many years.

From Humble Beginnings to Brewery Owner

Edmund Halsey was born in St Albans, England. He left his hometown with only a small amount of money, about 4 shillings and 6 pence. This was not much at all! He moved to London to find work.

Starting at the Anchor Brewery

Halsey found a job at the Anchor Brewery in Southwark, London. The brewery was owned by James Child. Edmund started with simple tasks, like sweeping the yards. But he was very good at his job and quickly got promoted. He became a clerk in the brewery's office.

Marriage and Partnership

Edmund Halsey married James Child's only daughter, Anne Child, on October 17, 1693. After their marriage, he became a partner in the brewery business. This was a big step for him. By 1696, he was already wealthy enough to lend a large sum of money, £1,000, to the King.

Taking Control of the Brewery

When James Child passed away in September 1696, Edmund Halsey took full control of the Anchor Brewery. He continued to make it a very successful business. In 1697, he became a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Brewers. This was an important group for brewers.

A Career in Politics

Edmund Halsey also became involved in politics. He was a member of the Whig party, which was one of the main political groups at the time.

First Attempt as MP

In December 1711, Halsey was chosen to run for Member of Parliament for Southwark. Many brewers in the area supported the Whig party. He won the election on January 12, 1712. However, there were some problems with the votes. The House of Commons decided that his opponent, Sir George Mathews, should have won. So, Halsey lost his seat in Parliament on February 7, 1712.

Becoming Master of Brewers

In 1715, Edmund Halsey became the Master of the Brewers Company. This showed how respected he was in the brewing industry.

MP for Buckingham and Southwark

Halsey became an MP again on November 30, 1717, this time for Buckingham. He got this position with help from his son-in-law, Sir Richard Temple. In Parliament, he supported the government's plans.

He also held other important roles. By 1719, he was a governor of St Thomas’ Hospital. In 1721, he became a director of the South Sea Company. He kept both these jobs for the rest of his life.

In 1722, he ran for MP in Southwark again and won. His brewery's success likely helped him gain more support. In 1724, he bought a large estate called the manor of Stoke Poges for £12,000. This was a huge amount of money at the time! He was elected MP for Southwark without opposition in 1727.

Later Life and Legacy

Edmund Halsey passed away in August 1729. Sadly, two of his sons died before him. He left his estate, including the Stoke Poges property, to his only daughter, Anne, who was Viscountess Cobham. His wife passed away in 1741.

The Anchor Brewery was sold for £30,000. It was bought by Ralph Thrale, who was Halsey's brewery clerk and also his nephew. The brewery became very important for Ralph Thrale and his son Henry to start their own political careers.