John Parker, 1st Baron Boringdon facts for kids
John Parker, 1st Baron Boringdon (born 1735 – died 27 April 1788) was an important person in British history. He was a peer, which means he was a nobleman, and a Member of Parliament, meaning he helped make laws for the country.
Who Was John Parker?
John Parker was the oldest son of John Parker (1703–1768). His family lived at Boringdon Hall and Saltram House. His mother was Catherine Poulett. John had a sister named Henrietta and a younger brother, Montagu Edmund Parker. Montagu later became the High Sheriff of Devon.
John's Life and Work
John Parker went to Christ Church, Oxford for his education. He also attended Plympton Grammar School. Interestingly, the father of the famous painter Sir Joshua Reynolds was the headmaster there.
John Parker became a Member of Parliament. He first represented Bodmin from 1761 to 1762. After that, he represented Devon from 1762 to 1784. In 1784, he was given the special title of Baron Boringdon. This made him a nobleman.
Besides his political work, John Parker loved art. He collected many paintings for his home, Saltram House. He was also chosen to be a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1767. This is a group that celebrates important scientific achievements. In 1783, his horse, named Saltram, won a famous horse race called The Derby.
His Family Life
Lord Boringdon was married two times:
- His first wife was Frances Hort. They married in 1764, but she sadly died later that same year. They did not have any children.
- His second wife was Theresa Robinson. They married in 1769. She was the daughter of Thomas Robinson, 1st Baron Grantham. John and Theresa had two children:
- Their son, John Parker, 1st Earl of Morley (1772–1840), later became the Earl of Morley.
- Their daughter, Theresa Parker (1775–1856), married George Villiers.
His Final Years
Lord Boringdon passed away in April 1788.
