Frank Beauchamp facts for kids
Colonel Sir Frank Beachim Beauchamp (born in Mells, Somerset in 1866, died in Worthing, West Sussex, on June 17, 1950) was an important businessman. He owned many coal mines in the Somerset coalfield, especially near Midsomer Norton and Radstock. He was given the special title of a Baronet in 1918, which meant he was the first Baronet of Woodborough. Sir Frank was also a Conservative county councillor for 39 years, helping to make decisions for his local area.
Early Life and Family
Sir Frank Beachim Beauchamp was born in 1866 in a village called Mells, Somerset. He was taught at home when he was young. He grew up in a large house called Norton Hall in Midsomer Norton, which isn't there anymore.
His father, William Beauchamp, also worked in the coal mining business. Sir Frank had a sister named Rose. Her husband's brother was Sir Reginald Thatcher, a famous composer and music leader.
In 1897, Sir Frank married Mabel Constance Bannon. A photo of her is kept in a special collection at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. Sir Frank and Mabel had four children. Their son, Sir Douglas Clifford Beauchamp, became the second and last Baronet after his father. They also had a daughter named Irene Mabel.
Career and Public Service
Sir Frank was a very busy person. He worked as a magistrate, which meant he helped with local laws and justice. He was also a member of the Somerset County Council for a long time, from 1907 to 1946. This council helped run things in the county, like roads and schools. In 1910, he even tried to become a member of Parliament.
During World War I, in May 1915, Sir Frank joined the army. After 18 months in Britain, he went to the United States to advise the War Department in Washington D.C.. He became a Colonel, which is a high rank in the army. Because of his important work, he was made a Baronet in 1918 and received another special award, the CBE, in 1919.
Sir Frank's main businesses were in Radstock and Midsomer Norton. He owned several coal mines, which are called collieries. He also had companies that distributed coal, made wagons for trains, and even a gasworks that produced gas for homes and businesses. He worked with his brother Louis at the Norton Hill colliery. He was also in charge of the East Bristol colliery company and a director of the Somerset colliery company.
Sir Frank lived in a large house called Woodborough House. This house was located between Peasedown St John and Radstock in Somerset, but it has also been taken down.
Later Years and Passing
In his later years, Sir Frank's health was not good. Because of this, he moved to Worthing, West Sussex, where he spent his final years. He passed away there on June 17, 1950. Sir Frank is buried in the churchyard of St Peter's Church in Camerton, Somerset.
