Felix Calvert facts for kids
Felix Calvert (born around 1664 – died December 28, 1736) was an English politician. He was a member of the Tory party and served as a Member of Parliament (MP). He lived in Marcham, which was then in Berkshire (now part of Oxfordshire).
Early Life and Family
Felix Calvert was the first son of Thomas Calvert. His father was a brewer, a person who makes beer, in London. His mother was Anne, the daughter of William Ambose from Reading.
Felix Calvert married Mary, the daughter of Sir Francis Winnington. Sir Francis was also a Member of Parliament and a lawyer for King Charles II.
Felix Calvert took over his father's business in 1668.
Land and Public Service
Felix Calvert bought a large estate called the manor of Marcham in Berkshire in 1691. Later, in 1700, he bought another estate called Albury Hall in Hertfordshire.
He served an important role as the High Sheriff of Berkshire from 1707 to 1708. A High Sheriff was a royal official responsible for keeping the peace and carrying out laws in a county.
In 1717, Felix Calvert sold the Marcham estate to Robert Meggot. Robert Meggot was a very rich brewer from London.
Political Career
Felix Calvert became a Member of Parliament (MP) for the town of Reading. He served as an MP from 1713 until May 30, 1716.
He was known as a Tory politician. The Tories were one of the main political groups in England at that time. They often supported the King and the Church of England. However, Felix Calvert sometimes voted with the Whig party. The Whigs were another major political group, often favoring Parliament's power.
One important vote he took part in was against the Septennial Act 1716. This law changed how often elections were held, making them happen every seven years instead of every three years.
His election as MP was later declared invalid on May 30, 1716. This meant his election was cancelled. He tried to get re-elected in special elections held in June 1716 and March 1720, but he was not successful.
Later Life and Legacy
Felix Calvert passed away on December 28, 1736. He had a large family, leaving behind seven sons and five daughters. His estate, Albury Hall, was passed down to his son, also named Felix.
