George Dodington, 1st Baron Melcombe facts for kids
George Bubb Dodington, 1st Baron Melcombe (1691 – 28 July 1762) was an English politician. He was a member of the Whig party. Dodington served in the House of Commons, which is part of the British Parliament, from 1715 to 1761. He later became a Baron, a special title of nobility.
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Early Life and Education
George Bubb Dodington was born George Bubb in 1691. His father, Jeremiah Bubb, passed away in 1696. After his father's death, his uncle, George Dodington, took care of him.
George went to Winchester College in 1703. Later, he started studying at Exeter College, Oxford in 1707 when he was 16. In 1711, he joined Lincoln's Inn, a place where people studied law. From 1711 to 1713, he went on a "Grand Tour." This was a long trip around Europe that young wealthy men often took to learn about different cultures.
Starting a Political Career
In 1715, George Bubb became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Winchelsea. An MP is someone elected to represent people in Parliament. From 1715 to 1717, he worked as an envoy, or special representative, to Spain.
In 1717, he officially changed his last name to Dodington. This was done through a special law passed by Parliament. His uncle, George Dodington, died in 1720. George Bubb Dodington then inherited his uncle's wealth and property.
Important Roles
From 1721 to 1744, Dodington was the Lord Lieutenant of Somerset. This was an important role representing the King in the county of Somerset. In 1722, he was elected as an MP again, this time for Bridgwater.
He became a close associate of Robert Walpole, a very powerful politician. Walpole made Dodington a Lord of the Treasury in 1724. This meant he helped manage the country's money. Dodington secretly married Katherine Behan around 1725.
Friendship with Prince Frederick
George Dodington was very wealthy. He became friends with Frederick, Prince of Wales. Prince Frederick was the son of King George II. The Prince often borrowed money from Dodington to help with his debts.
When King George II asked Prince Frederick to leave St James's Palace, the Prince moved into Dodington's house in London. This showed how close their friendship was.
Later Political Life
Dodington continued to be elected as an MP for Bridgwater in 1734 and 1741. He was also elected for other areas but chose to represent Bridgwater each time.
In 1744, he became the Treasurer of the Navy. This role involved managing the finances for the British Navy. He also became a Privy Councillor in 1745. This is a group of important advisors to the King.
He was elected MP for Bridgwater again in 1747. From 1749 to 1751, he served as the treasurer for Prince Frederick's household.
Becoming Baron Melcombe
In 1754, Dodington was elected as an MP for Melcombe Regis. He served as the Treasurer of the Navy again from 1755 to 1756.
After Prince Frederick's son became King George III in 1760, Dodington received a special honor. On April 6, 1761, he was given the title of Baron Melcombe. This made him a member of the House of Lords.
Interests and Home
George Dodington was interested in art and collected many old artifacts. He bought ancient items from Rome. His house in Hammersmith was called 'La Trappe'. This was a funny name, as it sounded like a quiet monastery, but his house was actually a lively place.
It was a meeting spot for politicians and artists who supported Prince Frederick. The house was designed by Roger Morris, a famous architect. The sculpture gallery in his house was designed by Giovanni Niccolo Servandoni, an Italian architect.
Legacy
Historians describe Dodington as someone who worked hard for his friends and his own interests. He is shown in a famous picture by William Hogarth from 1761. Dodington also kept a diary, which was published after he passed away in 1784.
Images for kids
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George Bubb at a young age
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Caricature of George Bubb Dodington and Sir Thomas Robinson
