John Ashburnham, 1st Earl of Ashburnham facts for kids
John Ashburnham, 1st Earl of Ashburnham (1687–1737) was an important English nobleman, soldier, and politician. He was born on March 13, 1687, and passed away on March 10, 1737. He inherited his family's title and became a significant figure in British society during his lifetime.
Early Life and Military Start
John Ashburnham was the second son of John Ashburnham, who was the 1st Baron Ashburnham. His mother was Bridget Vaughan. In January 1707, when he was about 19 years old, he began his military career. He became a Guidon and major in the 1st Horse Guards. This was an important step for him, helped by his father.
Political Career and Titles
In 1708, John Ashburnham tried to become a Member of Parliament (MP) for Rye, but he was not successful. However, things changed for him in 1709. His older brother, William, inherited their father's title, the barony of Ashburnham. When William died without children a few months later, John inherited the title himself.
Because he became a peer (a nobleman), he had to leave his seat in the House of Commons. He then decided to support the Whig political party, moving away from his family's earlier leanings.
From 1713 to 1715, Ashburnham served as the Colonel of the 1st (His Majesty's Own) Troop of Horse Guards. He also held important roles like deputy governor of the Cinque Ports from 1713 to 1714. Later, he was a Lord of the Bedchamber for Frederick, Prince of Wales, from 1728 to 1731. He also became the Captain of the Yeomen of the Guard from 1731 to 1733. On May 14, 1730, he was given even higher titles: he was made the Earl of Ashburnham and Viscount St Asaph.
Family Life
John Ashburnham was married three times.
- His first marriage was on October 21, 1710, to Lady Mary Butler. She was the daughter of James Butler, 2nd Duke of Ormonde. Lady Mary passed away in 1713.
- After her death, he married Henrietta Stanley on July 25, 1714. She was also known as the Dowager Countess of Anglesey and the 4th Baroness Strange. They had one daughter named Henrietta (born around 1716), who later became the 5th Baroness Strange. Sadly, Henrietta passed away in 1732. His second wife, Henrietta, died in 1718.
- His third marriage was to Lady Jemima Grey on February 4, 1723/24. She was the daughter of Henry Grey, 1st Duke of Kent. They had one son together, named John (born 1724). This son later became the 2nd Earl of Ashburnham. Lady Jemima died in 1731.
John Ashburnham died on March 10, 1737. He was buried in the family vault at Ashburnham. His only son, John, succeeded him as the 2nd Earl of Ashburnham.
