Robert Haldane Bradshaw facts for kids
Robert Haldane Bradshaw (1759–1835) was an important English politician and a key manager for Francis Egerton, 3rd Duke of Bridgewater. After the Duke passed away, Bradshaw became the first leader, or "Superintendent," of the Bridgewater Trustees. These Trustees were in charge of managing the Duke's large business, which included busy coal mines in Worsley and the famous Bridgewater Canal.
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Early Life and Career
Robert Haldane Bradshaw was the oldest son of Thomas Bradshaw, who worked for the government as the Secretary to the Treasury. His mother was Elizabeth Wilson. It is thought that Robert went to Harrow, a well-known school. Later, he started working for the government, which is called "public service." By the year 1800, he was working directly for the Duke of Bridgewater as his main agent.
Working for the Duke
In 1802, the Duke of Bridgewater chose Robert Bradshaw to be a Member of Parliament (MP). An MP is a person elected to represent an area in the country's government. Bradshaw represented a place called Brackley. He kept this important job until 1832. That year, a new law called the Reform Act changed how MPs were chosen.
Leading the Duke's Estate
When the Duke of Bridgewater died in 1803, his large business and properties were put under the care of three Trustees. Robert Bradshaw was made the Superintendent, meaning he was fully in charge of running everything. The other two Trustees were mostly there for legal reasons. After the Duke's death, the money from the Bridgewater Trust went to his nephew, George Leveson-Gower, who was also known as the Marquess of Stafford. Later, this money was planned to go to Stafford's second son, Francis Egerton.
Later Life and Retirement
Robert Bradshaw preferred to stay in London, where his home was close to the Duke's house, Bridgewater House. While he was managing the Bridgewater estate, he often said he was working too much. This was partly because he found it hard to let others help him with tasks. People described him as a very traditional person who was also a very tough negotiator.
In November 1831, Bradshaw had a stroke, which affected his left arm and leg. This also made it harder for him to make good business decisions. The Duke of Sutherland passed away in 1833. After some disagreements between Bradshaw and Francis Egerton, Bradshaw was convinced to retire in 1834. He moved to Kings Langley and died there a year later.
Archives
You can find papers and documents belonging to Robert Haldane Bradshaw at the Cadbury Research Library, which is part of the University of Birmingham.
See also
