Godfrey Clarke facts for kids
Godfrey Clarke (born around 1684 – died 1734) was an important English gentleman. He owned land and was a politician. He served as a member of the House of Commons (which is like a part of today's Parliament) from 1710 until he passed away in 1734.
Contents
Early Life and Family Background
Godfrey Clarke was the son of Sir Gilbert Clarke. His family was well-known in the area of Somersall Hall. They also owned a place called Chilcote Hall, which isn't there anymore.
Godfrey went to Rugby School in 1690. Later, when he was 16, he went to Magdalen College, Oxford University in 1695. After his father died in 1701, Godfrey took over the family estates.
Early Public Service
In 1702, Godfrey became a deputy-lieutenant. This was a role that helped the main leader of the county. From 1705 to 1706, he was the High Sheriff of Derbyshire. This was an important job that helped keep law and order in the county.
In 1706, Godfrey Clarke married Catherine Stanhope. Her father was Philip Stanhope, 2nd Earl of Chesterfield, a very important noble. This marriage helped connect Godfrey to powerful families in England.
Political Career in Parliament
Godfrey Clarke became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Derbyshire. He was first elected in the 1710 general election without anyone running against him. This means he was very popular!
He was re-elected easily in 1713 and again in the 1715 general election. Godfrey was known as a Tory. This was one of the main political groups at the time.
Important Votes
In 1719, Godfrey Clarke voted against the government on some big issues. These included changes to laws about religion and a plan called the Peerage Bill. This bill would have limited the number of new noble titles.
He was elected two more times, in 1722 and 1727. He continued to serve in Parliament until his death.
Later Life and Legacy
Godfrey Clarke passed away on March 14, 1734. He never married. His land and properties went to his nephew, also named Godfrey Clarke. This nephew was the son of Godfrey's brother, Gilbert Clarke.
The nephew's son, Godfrey Bagnall Clarke, was the last person from this family to own Chilcote.
