Godfrey Baring facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir Godfrey Baring, 1st Baronet
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| Born | 18 April 1871 |
| Died | 24 November 1957 |
| Nationality | British |
| Occupation | Liberal Member of Parliament |
Sir Godfrey Baring (born April 18, 1871, died November 24, 1957) was an important British politician. He was a Member of Parliament (MP) for the Isle of Wight and later for Barnstaple. He was also known for his long service to his community and for helping save lives at sea.
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Who Was Sir Godfrey Baring?
Godfrey Baring came from a well-known family. He was the son of Lieutenant-General Charles Baring. His mother was Helen Graham. He lived on the Isle of Wight his whole life.
Early Life and Public Service
Godrey Baring started working in politics and public service when he was quite young. At 23, he became the president of the Isle of Wight Liberal Union. A year later, he was made a Justice of the Peace, which meant he could help keep law and order.
In 1897, at age 26, he became the High Sheriff of Hampshire. This was an important role in the county. In 1898, he became the chairman of the Isle of Wight County Council. He held this important position for the rest of his life.
A Passion for Sailing
Godfrey Baring loved sailing. In 1892, he joined the Royal Yacht Squadron, a very famous yacht club. He often welcomed royal visitors to his home, Nubia House. This was especially true during Cowes Week, a well-known sailing event.
His Time in Parliament
In the 1906 United Kingdom general election, Godfrey Baring was elected as a Member of Parliament for the Isle of Wight. However, he lost this seat in the next election in January 1910.
On February 4, 1911, he was given the title of baronet. This is a special hereditary title. He returned to Parliament later that year. He was elected MP for Barnstaple in a special election called a by-election. He tried to become MP for the Isle of Wight again in 1918 but did not win.
Helping Save Lives
For 33 years, Godfrey Baring was part of the management committee for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI). This organization saves lives at sea. In 1951, he was the president of the RNLI. A new lifeboat in Clacton was named Sir Godfrey Baring in his honor.
In 1952, he was made a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE). This was a special award from Queen Elizabeth II. He received it for his many years of public service. This included being chairman of the Isle of Wight County Council for over 50 years. He was also chairman of the RNLI for 27 years.
His Family
Godfrey Baring married Eva Hermione Mackintosh. They had a daughter named Helen Azalea Baring, who was also known as "Poppy."
