Henry Woods (MP) facts for kids
Henry Woods (born in 1822, died May 16, 1882) was an English businessman and politician. He owned cotton factories and coal mines. He was also a member of the Liberal Party, a political group in the United Kingdom. Woods served in the House of Commons, which is a main part of the British Parliament, from 1857 to 1874.
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Who Was Henry Woods?
Henry Woods was born in 1822. His father was William Woods and his mother was Elizabeth Marsden. The family lived in Wigan, a town in England. Henry grew up to be a successful businessman.
His Businesses
Woods owned cotton factories in Wigan. Cotton factories make cotton fabric, which is used to create clothes and other items. He also owned collieries, which are coal mines. Coal was a very important fuel during his time. These businesses made him a wealthy and influential person in his community. He also held important local roles, such as a J.P. for Lancashire, which meant he helped keep law and order.
From Business to Politics
In 1857, Henry Woods decided to enter politics. He ran in the general election for the area of Wigan. A general election is when people vote to choose their representatives in Parliament.
Serving in Parliament
Woods was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Wigan. An MP is someone who represents the people of their area in the House of Commons. He worked as an MP for many years, from 1857 until 1874. During this time, he was part of the Liberal Party.
His Family Life
Henry Woods was married twice. His first wife was Hannah Hindley, whom he married in 1854. Sadly, Hannah passed away in 1857. Later, in 1864, Henry married Henrietta Emma Gilbert. Henrietta was the daughter of Ashurst Gilbert, who was a Bishop.
His Final Years
Henry Woods died in 1882 when he was 59 years old. He is remembered as a successful businessman and a long-serving Member of Parliament for Wigan.
