John Pennington, 1st Baron Muncaster facts for kids

John Pennington, 1st Baron Muncaster (born around 1740 – died 8 October 1813), was known as John Pennington until 1783. He was an important British nobleman and a Tory politician. A "peer" is a member of the nobility, and a "Tory" was a political group in Britain.

Early Life and Family

John Pennington was the oldest son of Sir Joseph Pennington, who was the 4th Baronet of Muncaster Castle. Muncaster Castle is a historic home located in Cumberland, England. His mother was Sarah, whose father was John Moore.

Becoming a Politician

John Pennington began his career in politics in 1781. He was elected to the British Parliament. Parliament is where laws are made for the country. He represented the area called Milborne Port. He held this position until 1796.

Parliamentary Roles

After representing Milborne Port, he then served for Colchester until 1802. In 1806, he was elected again. This time, he represented Westmoreland. He continued to serve in Parliament for Westmoreland until he passed away in 1813.

Becoming a Baron

In 1783, John Pennington received a special honor. He was given the title of Baron Muncaster in the Peerage of Ireland. This meant he became a nobleman, or "peer." This happened ten years before he inherited his father's title of Baronet. If he didn't have any sons, his younger brother, Lowther Pennington, would inherit the title after him.

His Family Life

Lord Muncaster married Penelope Compton in 1778. Penelope was the daughter of James Compton. Sadly, Penelope passed away in November 1806. Lord Muncaster lived for seven more years after her. He died in October 1813. He did not have any sons. Because of this, his younger brother, Lowther, inherited both the Baronet title and the Baron Muncaster title.