John Codrington facts for kids

John Codrington was an important English politician who lived from around 1677 to 1754. He came from Codrington in Gloucestershire and Wraxall in Somerset. He was a member of the Tory Party, which was one of the main political groups in England at the time. John Codrington served in the British House of Commons, which is a part of the British Parliament, between 1710 and 1741.

Early Life and Family

John Codrington was born in 1677 and was the oldest son of Robert Codrington. His mother was Agnes Samwell. He started studying at University College, Oxford in 1695.

He married twice. His first wife was Jane Tynte, but she passed away in 1702. In 1709, he married Elizabeth Gorges. This marriage was very helpful for him because Elizabeth brought several large estates, including land in Wraxall, Somerset, into the family.

Political Journey

John Codrington tried to become a Member of Parliament (MP) for Bath in 1702 and 1705, but he didn't win those elections.

However, he was successfully elected as the MP for Bath in the general election of 1710. As an MP, he helped pass a law in 1712 to make the River Avon easier for boats to travel on between Bristol and Bath. This was important for trade and transport.

He was re-elected for Bath in 1713 and again in 1715. When his father died in 1717, John inherited his family's estates. He was elected again in 1722, but he lost his seat in the 1727 election. He managed to win back his seat in Bath in 1734, but he was defeated again in 1741 and did not try to become an MP after that.

Later Life and Passing

John Codrington's wife, Elizabeth, died in 1740. He passed away on April 17, 1754. They had four daughters.