John Cecil, 5th Earl of Exeter facts for kids
John Cecil, 5th Earl of Exeter was an important English nobleman. He was born around 1648 and passed away in 1700. Before he became an Earl, people knew him as Lord Burghley. He was also called the "Travelling Earl" because he loved to travel. He was a peer (a high-ranking noble) and a Member of Parliament (a person elected to help make laws).
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Early Life and Education
John Cecil was the son of John Cecil, 4th Earl of Exeter. His mother was Lady Frances Manners. He grew up in a noble family.
He received a good education. He attended Stamford School. Later, he studied at St John's College at the University of Cambridge.
Becoming a Member of Parliament and Earl
In 1675, John Cecil was chosen to be a Member of Parliament. He represented the area of Northamptonshire. He held this position for three years.
In 1678, his father passed away. John then became the 5th Earl of Exeter. This meant he joined the House of Lords, which is another part of the British Parliament.
The Travelling Earl and Art Collector
John Cecil was known as the "Travelling Earl." He went on what was called a Grand Tour. This was a long trip across Europe, especially Italy. Wealthy young men often took these trips to learn about art and culture.
He made several trips to Italy in 1679, 1681, and 1699. During his travels, he bought many valuable items. He filled his family home, Burghley House, with these treasures.
Over 22 years, he collected about 300 works of art. On his last trip to Europe, he spent a lot of money. He spent about £5,000, which would be like £535,000 today.
Family Life
Around 1670, Lord Exeter married Lady Anne. She was the daughter of William Cavendish, 3rd Earl of Devonshire. They had nine children together.
John Cecil passed away in August 1700. His son, John Cecil, 6th Earl of Exeter, took over his titles.
John and Anne's Children
Eight of their children are known:
- John Cecil, 6th Earl of Exeter (1674–1721): He became the 6th Earl of Exeter. Before that, he was known as Lord Burghley. He also served as a Member of Parliament for Rutland.
- Hon. William Cecil (before 1682–1715): He was their second son. William was part of a social group called the "Order of Little Bedlam." This was a gentlemen's club. He was also a Member of Parliament for Stamford.
- Hon. Charles Cecil (c.1683–1726): He was the third son. Charles was also a member of the Bedlam Club with his brothers. He served as a Member of Parliament for Stamford.
- Hon. Edward Cecil (died 1723): He was the fourth son.
- Lady Christian Cecil
- Lady Ann Cecil
- Lady Frances Cecil: She passed away when she was young.
- Lady Elizabeth Cecil (1687–1708): She was their fourth daughter. Elizabeth married Charles Boyle, 4th Earl of Orrery. She had one son, John Boyle, 5th Earl of Cork.
