John Weaver (Bridgnorth MP) facts for kids
John Weaver (1675–1747) was an important British lawyer and politician. He lived at Morville in Shropshire, England. He served in the House of Commons, which is like a main part of the British Parliament, from 1713 to 1734. He was a member of the Whig political group.
About John Weaver
John Weaver was born in 1675 and was baptized on October 21 of that year. He was the oldest son of Arthur Weaver and Mary Weaver. His family lived in Morville.
He studied law and became a lawyer in 1697. In 1710, he took over his family's estate at Morville after his father passed away. He married Sarah Acton on November 22, 1712.
Starting His Political Career
John Weaver had strong family connections in Bridgnorth, a town nearby. His grandfather had married into a wealthy family, which gave John a good standing in the area.
In 1710, he became a "freeman" of Bridgnorth. This meant he had special rights in the town, including the right to vote and run for office.
In the 1713 general election, John Weaver was elected to Parliament. He became a Member of Parliament for Bridgnorth. He was elected without anyone running against him, alongside another Whig politician, William Whitmore.
Time in Parliament
John Weaver continued to be elected to Parliament. He was re-elected in the 1715, 1722, and 1727 general elections.
During his time in Parliament, he usually supported the government's plans. However, he did oppose one important proposal called the "Peerage Bill."
In 1725, after William Whitmore died, John Weaver temporarily became the "recorder" of Bridgnorth. This was an important legal role in the town. He held this position until Thomas Whitmore, William's relative, was old enough to take over.
In his last term in Parliament (after 1727), John Weaver sometimes voted against the government. In 1733, he was briefly held by Parliament's officer because he missed a meeting. He decided not to run for election again in 1734.
Later Life and Legacy
John Weaver passed away on January 9, 1747. He had one son, Arthur, who also followed in his footsteps and became a Member of Parliament for Bridgnorth.
