Ralph Bell (MP) facts for kids
Ralph Bell (died 3 November 1733) was an English politician from Thirsk, North Yorkshire. He served as a member of the British Parliament from 1710 to 1717.
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Who Was Ralph Bell?
Ralph Bell was the son of Robert Bell and Elizabeth Bell. His family had lived in Thirsk since the 1500s. Ralph's father owned many properties in Thirsk, which gave the family a lot of influence in the area.
Ralph Bell worked as a merchant in Thirsk. On 3 March 1697, he married Rachel Windlow from Yarm, Yorkshire. When his father passed away in 1711, Ralph took over the family's affairs.
Ralph Bell's Political Journey
The Bell family had a strong connection to politics in Thirsk. They had enough influence to help choose one of the local representatives in Parliament. Ralph Bell followed in his family's footsteps and became active in politics.
Becoming a Member of Parliament
Ralph Bell was first elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Thirsk in the 1710 general election. He was chosen without anyone running against him. This shows how much support he had in his hometown.
He was re-elected two more times, in 1713 and 1715. This meant he continued to represent Thirsk in the British Parliament.
Stepping Down from Parliament
In 1717, Ralph Bell decided to leave his role as an MP. He accepted a new job as the Customer of Hull. This was a position with the Board of Customs, where he would collect taxes on goods coming into the port of Hull.
Later Life and Legacy
In 1723, Ralph Bell bought a beautiful house in Thirsk, which is now known as Thirsk Hall. He passed away on 3 November 1733. Ralph Bell did not have any children. His main heir was his nephew, Ralph Consett, who then changed his name to Bell to continue the family name.
