John Symes Berkeley facts for kids
John Symes Berkeley (1663–1736) was an important English politician from Stoke Gifford, near Bristol. He was a Member of Parliament, which means he helped make laws for the country.
Early Life and Family Estate
John Symes Berkeley was born in 1663. He was the second son of Richard Berkeley. In 1685, his older brother passed away. John then inherited the family's large estate, including a grand house called Stoke Park.
John was smart about his land. He discovered a lot of coal deep under his estate. He used this coal to make money. He also hired a famous artist, Sir James Thornhill, to change a small building at Stoke Park House into a beautiful orangery. An orangery was a special room for growing orange trees and other plants.
Political Career
John Symes Berkeley was chosen to represent the area of Gloucestershire in the Parliament. He served as a Member of Parliament twice. His first time was from 1710 to 1713. He was elected again and served from 1713 to 1715.
Later Life and Legacy
John Symes Berkeley died in Bath in 1736. He was buried in Stoke Gifford. He was married two times. His first wife was Susan, whom he married in 1695. Later, in 1717, he married Elizabeth.
John and Elizabeth had a son named Norborne Berkeley, 4th Baron Botetourt. Norborne later became the Governor of Virginia, a very important role in America. They also had a daughter named Elizabeth. She married Charles Somerset, 4th Duke of Beaufort, who lived at Badminton House.
When Norborne died in Virginia, Stoke Park House went to his sister Elizabeth. She was then known as the Dowager Duchess of Beaufort. The house became known as the Dower House for the Dukes of Beaufort.
