Edward Harley (1664–1735) facts for kids
Edward Harley (born 1664, died 1735) was an important British politician. He was a member of the Tory party. He served as a Member of Parliament for 27 years. He strongly supported his older brother, Robert Harley, who was a very powerful leader. Edward Harley was also known as the Auditor of the Imprests, which was a special job. Because of this, people often called him Auditor Harley to tell him apart from other family members with the same name.
Contents
Edward Harley's Life and Work
Early Life and Education
Edward was the second son of Edward Harley. His family lived at Brampton Bryan Castle in Herefordshire, England. His older brother was Robert Harley, 1st Earl of Oxford and Earl Mortimer. Edward went to Westminster School, which is a famous school. Later, in 1681, he studied law at the Middle Temple. He became a lawyer in 1688.
Political Career and Public Service
Edward Harley first became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Droitwich in 1695. He served there until 1698. After that, he represented Leominster in Parliament. He was an MP for Leominster almost continuously until 1722.
He also held an important local position as the Recorder of Leominster from 1692 to 1732. In 1702, he was given the job of joint Auditor of the Imprests for life. This was a significant role in checking government accounts.
Edward was a very loyal supporter of his brother Robert Harley's government. This government was in power from 1710 to 1714. When his brother faced a difficult time in 1715, Edward strongly spoke out against the move to have him removed from office.
His Home at Eywood
Around 1705, Edward Harley bought a large property called Eywood estate. This estate was located in Titley, Herefordshire. He built a new house there. Sadly, this house was taken down in 1958.
Edward Harley's Family Life
Edward Harley married Sarah Foley. She was the third daughter of Thomas Foley.
Edward and Sarah had several children:
- Their oldest son, also named Edward, later became the 3rd Earl of Oxford. This happened after his cousin, the 2nd Earl, passed away without any sons.
- Their second son, Robert, sadly died when he was a baby.
- They had a daughter named Abigail.
- Their youngest son was also named Robert Harley. This Robert also became the Recorder of Leominster. He was also elected as a Member of Parliament for Leominster two times, just like his father.
