Henry Seymour Portman facts for kids
Henry Seymour, who later became Henry Portman, was an important English politician. He lived from about 1637 to 1728. He came from a place called Orchard Portman in Somerset. Henry Portman was a Member of Parliament (MP) for many years. He served in the House of Commons from 1679 to 1715.
His Early Years
Henry Seymour was born around 1637. He was the fifth son of Sir Edward Seymour, 3rd Baronet. When he was older, Henry joined the Army. By 1662, he was an ensign in Guernsey. This means he was a junior officer. He became a lieutenant in 1669. From 1672 to 1673, he was a captain. His first wife was Penelope Haslewood. She was the daughter of Sir William Haslewood.
Becoming a Politician
Henry Seymour became a Member of Parliament (MP) in 1679. He was elected for the area of St Mawes. He won without anyone running against him. He was re-elected for St Mawes in 1679, 1681, 1685, and 1689. From 1689 to 1690, he helped with taxes in Dorset.
In 1690, something big happened. Henry inherited land and property from his cousin, Sir William Portman. Because of this, he changed his last name to Portman.
After changing his name, Henry Portman became an MP for Totnes in 1690. He then became a deputy lieutenant for Somerset in 1691. This role helps keep peace and order. He also became a JP for Somerset and Devon. This means he helped with local law and order.
Henry Portman was elected MP for St Mawes again in 1696. Then, he was elected for Taunton in 1698 and 1701. In 1702, he became the MP for Wells. He held this seat for three more elections. In 1703, he was given a special job. He became the keeper of Hyde Park. He held this job until he died.
In 1708, he was elected MP for Somerset. He was elected for Taunton again in 1710. He won without opposition in 1713. However, after the 1715 election, he lost his seat. He never became an MP again after that.
His Later Life
Henry Portman married for a second time in 1714. He was 77 years old. His second wife was Meliora Fitch. She was the daughter of John Fitch. Henry Portman did not have any children from either marriage. He passed away on February 23, 1728. He was said to be 93 years old. His properties and land went to his brother Edward Seymour's family.
