Henry Brett (colonel) facts for kids

Henry Brett (who died in 1724) was an English gentleman who spent time in London's social scene. He was also an army officer and a politician. He was involved in the world of theater and was a friend of famous writers like Joseph Addison and Richard Steele.

Early Life and Marriage

Henry Brett was the oldest son of Henry Brett from Cowley, Gloucestershire. His close friend, Colley Cibber, said that young Henry went to Oxford and studied law. However, he preferred to spend his time in London's social circles.

In 1700, Henry Brett married Anne. She was previously married to Charles Gerard, 2nd Earl of Macclesfield. Anne was the daughter of Sir Richard Mason. After her first marriage ended, she married Henry Brett.

Career and Social Life

After his marriage, Henry Brett became a Member of Parliament (MP) for a short time. He represented the area of Bishop's Castle in Shropshire.

In 1705, he also became an officer in the army. He was a lieutenant-colonel in a new regiment of soldiers led by Sir Charles Hotham. However, he left this position soon after.

Brett was a well-known member of a group of friends led by the writer Joseph Addison. This group often met at popular coffee houses in London like Will's and Button's. People believe he might be the character "Colonel Rambler" in a famous newspaper of the time called The Tatler.

Henry Brett also rebuilt a place called Sandywell Park. He later sold it to Lord Conway. At one point, he even owned a share in the famous Drury Lane Theatre. Henry Brett passed away suddenly in 1724.

Family Life

Henry Brett and Anne had a daughter named Anna Margharetta Brett. She was known for her dark, Spanish-looking beauty. After her father died, she became connected to George I of Great Britain, who was the King of Great Britain at the time.

Anna hoped to gain a high title, but her plans changed when the king died in 1727. Later, she married Sir William Leman, who was a baronet from Hertfordshire. Anna died in 1743 and did not have any children.

Mrs. Brett, Henry's wife, lived to be eighty years old. She passed away in London on October 11, 1753. She was said to enjoy literature. Her friend, Colley Cibber, reportedly asked her to review the script for his play, The Careless Husband, before it was performed in 1704.

Sometimes, Colonel Arthur Brett is confused with Henry Brett. Colonel Arthur Brett's daughter married Thomas Carte, who was a historian.