Robert Short (East India Company officer) facts for kids
Robert Short (born in 1783, died in 1859) was an important officer in the British Army. He worked for the Honourable East India Company in India. Later, he became the 54th Lord of the Manor of Solihull in England.
Robert Short's Early Life
Robert Short was born on December 30, 1783. His hometown was Solihull in Warwickshire, England. His parents were John and Jane Short. John Short was a respected surgeon in Solihull. Jane came from an important family. Robert had a comfortable childhood. He enjoyed growing up in Solihull. The town's motto is 'Urbs in rure'. This means 'town in the country'.
Robert went to Solihull School with his five brothers. He was already well-known there. His grandfather, Rev. Richard Mashiter, was a headmaster until 1769. His father was a Feoffee for 57 years. A Feoffee was like a trustee or manager for the school. Robert enjoyed his school days. He was also very good at sports.
Robert Short's Career
After school, Robert joined the Army. He worked for the Honourable East India Company. This company was a powerful British trading company. It also ruled parts of India during the time known as Company rule in India. Robert became a lieutenant-colonel. This was a high rank in the 21st Madras Native Infantry. He retired as an Honorary Colonel in 1830.
The East India Company offered him another job in India. But Robert decided to stay in England. He married Mary Astle in 1835. He wanted to live with his wife. He took on several new jobs. In 1838, he became a Justice of the Peace. He served in this role for 20 years. He was also elected as a Guardian of the Poor Law Union. Later, he became its Chairman.
During his career, he often spoke highly of Solihull School. He told traders and fellow officers about it. This helped the school gain a better reputation.
Robert Short's Later Years
In 1850, Robert bought the Lordship of the Manor of Solihull. This made him the 54th Lord of the Manor. This was an important local title.
He died in 1859 when he was 75 years old. He was buried at St Alphege on July 2. In his will, the Lordship of the Manor went to Rev. John Couchman. John was the eldest son of Robert's sister Elizabeth. The Couchman family still lives locally. They remain Lords of the Manor today. The Manor House was renamed Manor Cottage. It went to Robert's younger brother, Tomas. Tomas was Deputy Master at Rugby School.
