Edward Jeffreys facts for kids
Edward Winnington, also known as Edward Jeffreys, was an important English lawyer and judge. He was born on October 8, 1669, and passed away on July 20, 1725. He lived at Ham Castle in Droitwich. Edward was also a politician who served in the House of Commons (like the UK Parliament today) from 1708 to 1725. Many people thought he was the best lawyer in the Oxford area during his time.
Edward's Early Life and Family
Edward Winnington was born into a well-known family. His father was Sir Francis Winnington. In 1687, Edward began studying law at Middle Temple, which is a professional association for barristers in London. He officially became a lawyer on May 18, 1694.
Around 1709, Edward married Jane Bloom. Jane was the niece of Henry Jeffreys, who owned Ham Castle in Worcestershire. Because Jane was Henry Jeffreys's only heir, Edward decided to change his last name to Jeffreys. This allowed him to inherit the Jeffreys family's properties and wealth.
Edward's Career in Law and Politics
Edward Jeffreys became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Droitwich in the House of Commons in 1708. He was a member of the Tory party. He was elected without anyone running against him.
In 1710, he was re-elected for Droitwich. He was known as a "worthy patriot" for helping to find problems in the government that came before. He was also part of a group called the October Club. Edward was not very active in Parliament at this time. He spent most of his time working as a successful lawyer.
In 1711, Edward became a Queen's Counsel, which is a special title for experienced lawyers. He was also appointed as a judge for parts of Wales, including Carmarthenshire, Cardiganshire, and Pembrokeshire. However, he resigned this judge position in 1712. He preferred to focus on his very profitable legal work. He handled many important political cases.
He was re-elected as MP for Droitwich again in 1713. In 1714, he became a judge again, this time for Chester and other areas. This meant he had to be re-elected to Parliament in May of that year.
After the 1715 general election, Edward was re-elected unopposed for Droitwich. The government changed, and he became a leading speaker for the Tory party, which was now in opposition. He spoke against several important laws, including the Septennial Act in 1716, which changed how often elections were held. He also spoke against changes to laws about religious freedom and a bill about who could be a peer in 1719. In 1720, he became a "bencher" at his law association, which is a senior position. In 1721, he was chosen to be on a committee related to the South Sea Company, a very important financial company at the time. He was re-elected as MP for Droitwich for the last time in 1722.
Edward's Later Life and Passing
Edward Jeffreys enjoyed country sports, especially hunting. This hobby may have sometimes taken his focus away from his professional goals. In 1725, he had a hunting accident that injured his foot. Sadly, he developed a serious infection called gangrene. Doctors had to amputate his leg, but he passed away shortly after, on July 20, 1725.
Edward did not have any children who survived him. His properties and wealth were passed on to his older brother, Salwey Winnington.
