John Cockburn (Scottish politician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Cockburn
|
|
|---|---|
| Born | c. 1679 |
| Died | 12 November 1758 (aged 78–79) Navy Office, London, England
|
| Occupation | landowner and politician |
| Political party | Parliament of Scotland |
| Parent(s) |
|
John Cockburn (/ˈkoʊbərn/ KOH-bərn; born around 1679 – died November 12, 1758) was an important Scottish landowner and politician. He came from Ormiston, a place in East Lothian, Scotland. He served in the Parliament of Scotland from 1702 to 1707. After that, he was a Whig politician in the British House of Commons for 34 years, from 1707 to 1741.
Contents
John Cockburn's Story
Early Life and Family Connections
John Cockburn was the nephew of Adam Cockburn of Ormiston. Adam was a very important judge, known as the Lord Justice Clerk. Since Adam did not have any sons, John inherited the large Ormiston estate in 1735. This made John a significant landowner in the area.
Improving the Land and Villages
John Cockburn was very keen on making things better. In 1736, he planned a special "model village" in Ormiston. This village was designed to help local businesses grow. He wanted to encourage crafts like brewing beer, making spirits, and weaving cloth.
He also worked hard to improve farming methods on his estate. Because of his efforts, he is often called the "father of Scottish husbandry". Husbandry means the science of farming and raising animals. However, all these big plans and improvements cost a lot of money. John spent so much that he eventually ran out of funds. He was forced to sell his entire estate and the village to Charles Hope, the Earl of Hopetoun.
A Career in Politics
In 1702, John Cockburn became a Shire Commissioner for Haddington. This meant he represented his local area in the Parliament of Scotland. He was very interested in helping Scotland and England join together. This joining created the United Kingdom of Great Britain.
After the union, he became the first representative for East Lothian in the new British Parliament. He kept this seat in every election until 1741. He also served as one of the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty. These officials were in charge of the Royal Navy.
John Cockburn also built a grand house called Ormiston Hall on his estate. He was a very enthusiastic person who loved to start new projects. Sadly, his big ideas led him to financial trouble. This is why his lands were sold to the Earl of Hopetoun.
Later Life and Family
John Cockburn passed away on November 12, 1758. He died at his son's house in the Navy Office in London, England. He was married twice. His first wife was Beatrix, the daughter of John Carmichael, 1st Earl of Hyndford. They did not have any children. His second wife was Arabella Rowe. She was the youngest daughter of Anthony Rowe, who was also a Member of Parliament. John and Arabella had one son together.
John also had a son named George Cockburne. George became a captain in the Royal Navy. He married Caroline, the daughter of George Forrester, 5th Lord Forrester. George and Caroline had daughters.
