Edward Rolt facts for kids
Edward Rolt (born around 1686, died 1722) was an important British landowner and politician. He owned large estates in places like Sacombe Park in Hertfordshire, Harrowby Hall in Lincolnshire, and Spye Park in Wiltshire. He was a member of the Tory Party and served in the British House of Commons, which is like the main part of the British Parliament, from 1713 until he passed away in 1722.
Early Life and Family
Edward Rolt was the only son of Sir Thomas Rolt and his wife, Mary Cox. His father, Sir Thomas, worked for the East India Company in India and Persia. He became very successful and returned to England in 1682 with a large fortune. With this money, he bought Sacombe Park.
Edward went to Merton College, Oxford, when he was 15 years old in 1701. He later studied law at Lincoln's Inn in 1702. Around 1708, he married Anne Bayntun, whose family owned Spye Park. When his father died in 1710, Edward inherited Sacombe and Harrowby.
A Career in Parliament
Edward Rolt began his political journey in 1713. He was elected to Parliament without anyone running against him for the area of St Mawes. During this time, he didn't speak much in Parliament, but he did help manage a bill in 1714 to fix a road in Wiltshire.
In the 1715 election, Edward Rolt ran again, this time for Grantham, where he owned property. He won this election, even though he faced competition. As a Tory, he usually voted against the government's plans.
In 1720, records show that he received money from the South Sea Company. This company was involved in a famous financial event called the South Sea Bubble.
Later Political Life and Death
In the 1722 election, Edward Rolt lost his seat in Grantham. However, he was quickly elected for Chippenham, a different area. His wife had inherited a valuable estate there from her brother in 1716, which helped him win.
Sadly, Edward Rolt died of smallpox in Bath on December 22, 1722. He left behind six sons and two daughters. One of his sons, also named Edward, later became a baronet (a special title of honor). His wife, Anne, remarried in 1724 to Lord Somerville and had more children.
