James West (antiquary) facts for kids
James West (born May 2, 1703 – died July 2, 1772) was an important English politician and a person who loved old things (an antiquary). He was also a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS), which means he was a member of a very old and famous group of scientists. He led this group as its President from 1768 until he passed away in 1772.
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James West's Life
Early Life and Education
James West was the only son of Richard West. He went to Oxford University in 1719. After that, he studied law at a place called the Inner Temple. He became a lawyer in 1728.
Role at the Royal Society
In 1727, James West became a member, or "fellow," of the Royal Society. This is a famous group that supports science. He worked as the society's treasurer, managing their money, from 1736 to 1768. Later, he became the President of the Royal Society, leading the group from 1768 until 1772.
Political Career
James West was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for St Albans in 1741. An MP is a person elected to represent people in the government. He served as the MP for St Albans until 1768.
In 1746, he bought a new house in Lincoln's Inn Fields in London. He hired a sculptor named Thomas Carter the Elder to make beautiful marble fireplaces for his new home.
In 1768, he became the MP for Boroughbridge in Yorkshire. He served there until 1772. James West also worked in the government as a Secretary to the Treasury. This role involved helping to manage the country's money.
Family and Home
His Family
James West married Sarah, whose father was Sir Thomas Steavens. Sir Thomas was a rich timber merchant. James and Sarah lived in a part of London called Covent Garden.
Alscot Park
They also bought a country home called Alscot Park. It was a place where James could relax away from the city. He replaced the old house with a new one built in a special style called Rococo Gothic. They moved into the new house around 1762.
James West had one son, also named James West. This son passed away in 1795, before his mother. Because of this, Alscot Park later went to James West the younger's son, James Robert West.
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