Richard Symons facts for kids

Painting by Joshua Reynolds, 1770-1771

Sir Richard Symons, 1st Baronet (born around 1743 – died 4 July 1796), was an important British politician. A baronet is a special title, like a knight, but it can be passed down in a family. Sir Richard Symons was the first person in his family to have this title.

Early Life and Family History

The Mynde, Herefordshire

Sir Richard Symons was born with the name Richard Peers. His father was Alderman Richard Peers from London. An Alderman was a senior member of a city council. His mother was Anna Sophia Symons. Her father, Richard Symons, had bought a large property called The Mynde Park estate in a place called Much Dewchurch, which is in Herefordshire, England.

How Richard Peers Became Richard Symons

Richard Peers was the only son of his parents. His grandfather, Richard Symons (his mother's father), had a will that said something important. When his uncle, John Symons, passed away in 1764, Richard Peers inherited The Mynde estate. To follow his grandfather's wishes, he changed his last name from Peers to Symons. This meant he could take over the family estate and name.

Political Career and Baronetcy

Sir Richard Symons was a Member of Parliament (MP) for Hereford. An MP is someone elected to represent a group of people in the country's government, making laws and decisions. He served as an MP from 1768 to 1784.

Becoming a Baronet

In 1774, Sir Richard Symons was given the special title of baronet. This title was specifically "of The Mynde in the County of Hereford," linking it to his family estate. This was a big honor, showing his importance in society.

The coat of arms for the Symons baronets of the Mynde

Later Life and Legacy

Sir Richard Symons never got married. When he passed away in July 1796, his baronetcy title ended because he had no children to pass it on to.

The Mynde Estate After Sir Richard

According to his grandfather's will, The Mynde Park estate then went to Thomas Raymond. Thomas Raymond was the grandson of Sir Richard's grandfather's sister, Ann. Thomas Raymond also took on the Symons last name to keep the family name connected to the estate.

Family Members

Sir Richard's mother and father had passed away earlier, in 1756 and 1772. They were buried in a church called Croydon Minster. Sir Richard was survived by his sister, Lady Elizabeth Blunt, who received a large part of his will. He was also survived by his nephew, Charles Richard Blunt.