Robert Packer (died 1731) facts for kids

Robert Packer (1678–1731) was a British politician. He lived in Berkshire, England, at places like Shellingford House and Donnington Castle House. He served as a Member of Parliament (MP) in the House of Commons for many years, from 1712 until his death in 1731.

Early Life and Family

Robert Packer was born in 1678. He was the only son of John Packer and Elizabeth Stephens. When he was about nine years old, in 1687, he inherited his father's property.

Robert married Mary Winchcombe. Her father was Sir Henry Winchcombe, 2nd Baronet. Robert's sister-in-law, Frances Winchcombe, married Henry St John. Henry St John was a very important politician of that time. In 1701, Robert Packer had an accident with a gun and lost the thumb on his left hand.

Political Career

Robert Packer was a well-known person in his local area. In 1703, he became a deputy-lieutenant. This was an important role in the county's administration. He also served as the High Sheriff of Berkshire from 1708 to 1709. The High Sheriff was a royal officer responsible for law and order in the county.

Becoming a Member of Parliament

In 1712, his brother-in-law, Henry St John, became a peer (a Lord) and was given the title Viscount Bolingbroke. This meant Henry St John left his seat in the House of Commons. Robert Packer then ran for the empty seat for Berkshire. He was elected without anyone running against him on 23 July 1712. This is called being "returned unopposed."

Even before he officially took his seat in Parliament, Robert Packer was chosen to present a message from his county to the Queen. This showed how respected he was.

Voting and Elections

Once in Parliament, Robert Packer consistently voted against the government's plans. For example, on 18 June 1713, he voted for a bill about trade with France.

He was re-elected without opposition in the 1713 and 1715 general elections. He was known as a Tory, which was one of the main political groups at the time. He also won elections in 1722 and 1727, even though he faced competition in those years. He continued to vote against the government throughout his time in Parliament.

Later Life

Robert Packer passed away on 4 April 1731. He had five sons and one daughter. Sadly, one of his sons died before him. His oldest son, Winchcombe Howard Packer, took over his seat in Parliament. He also inherited property from the Winchcombe family, though it took some time to gain full control of it due to a disagreement with his uncle, Henry St John (Viscount Bolingbroke).