James Grimston, 3rd Viscount Grimston facts for kids
James Bucknall Grimston, 3rd Viscount Grimston (born May 9, 1747 – died December 30, 1808) was an important person in British politics. He was a nobleman, also known as a peer, and served as a Member of Parliament (MP).
His work in Parliament for seven years helped him and his future male family members become part of the Peerage of Great Britain. This was a special group of noble families in Great Britain.
Contents
Early Life and Education
James Grimston was the son of James Grimston, 2nd Viscount Grimston, and Mary Bucknall. He went to school at Eton, which is a famous school in England. After that, he studied at Trinity Hall, Cambridge, a well-known university.
Becoming a Viscount
In 1773, when his father passed away, James Grimston became the 3rd Viscount Grimston. A "viscount" is a type of nobleman. However, this title was an Irish peerage, meaning it was from Ireland. This meant he did not automatically get a seat in the House of Lords in the British Parliament.
Political Career
Even though he couldn't sit in the House of Lords at first, James Grimston wanted to be involved in British politics.
Serving in the House of Commons
In 1783, he was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for St Albans. MPs are elected by people to represent them in the House of Commons. This is where laws are debated and made.
He held this seat for about a year. Then, in 1784, he was elected to represent a larger area called Hertfordshire. He served as an MP for Hertfordshire until 1790.
Joining the House of Lords
In 1790, something important happened for James Grimston. He was given a new title: Baron Verulam. This new title was part of the Peerage of Great Britain.
Because this title was from Great Britain, it meant he now had a seat in the House of Lords. The House of Lords is the upper house of the British Parliament, where noblemen and high-ranking officials discuss and approve laws.
Family and Legacy
Lord Grimston married Harriot Walter. She was the daughter of Edward Walter and Harriot Forrester.
He passed away in December 1808 when he was 61 years old. His son, also named James, took over his titles. Later, in 1815, his son was given an even higher title, becoming the Earl of Verulam.
