Jerome Weston, 2nd Earl of Portland facts for kids

Jerome Weston, 2nd Earl of Portland (born 16 December 1605 – died 17 March 1663) was an important English diplomat and a large landowner. He also served as the leader of Munster, a region in the Kingdom of Ireland.

Early Life and Family Background

Jerome Weston was born in Nayland, Suffolk, England. He was the second son of Richard Weston, 1st Earl of Portland, but he became the oldest surviving son. His mother was Frances Walgrave, his father's second wife.

A Career in Politics and Diplomacy

Joining Parliament

In 1628, Jerome Weston was chosen to be a member of Parliament for a place called Gatton. However, there was a mix-up with the election results. After some discussion, his election was cancelled. Soon after, he was elected to represent Lewes instead, because the previous representative had become a noble.

Diplomatic Missions Abroad

Jerome Weston was also a diplomat. In 1632 and 1633, he traveled on important missions to several European countries. He visited the royal courts in France, Savoy, Florence, and Venice. These trips helped him gain experience in international relations.

Becoming the Earl of Portland

In 1635, Jerome Weston's father passed away. Jerome then inherited his father's title, becoming the Earl of Portland. This made him a very important person in English society.

Land and Leadership

Later in his life, in 1663, King Charles II gave Jerome Weston the Coulsdon manor in Surrey. This gift was given because Jerome agreed to give up his position as the leader of Munster back to the Crown.

Family Life

Lord Portland married Lady Frances Stuart on 10 June 1632. She was the daughter of the 3rd Duke of Lennox. Jerome and Frances had a son named Charles, who later became the 3rd Earl of Portland after his father's death.

Jerome Weston was also a first cousin to Jeremy Clarke, who became a Governor of Rhode Island in the American Colonies.

Images for kids

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  An engraving of Frances Stuart, Countess of Portland, by Wenceslas Hollar after a painting by Anthony van Dyck.