Robert Walpole, 2nd Earl of Orford facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Earl of Orford
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Portrait by John Theodore Heins
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| Born | 1701 |
| Died | 31 March 1751 (age 49–50) |
| Spouse(s) | |
| Partner(s) | Hannah Norsa (1736–1751) |
| Children | George Walpole |
| Parents |
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| Relatives | Walpole family George Townshend |
Robert Walpole, the 2nd Earl of Orford, was an important British politician and a member of the nobility. He was born in 1701 and passed away in 1751. For a time, he was known as Lord Walpole. He was also a Knight of the Bath (KB), a special honor given for public service.
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Early Life and Family Connections
Robert Walpole was the oldest son of Sir Robert Walpole. His father was a very powerful figure in British politics. Many people consider his father to be the first British Prime Minister.
In 1723, when Robert was 22, his father was offered a special title called a peerage. His father decided to let Robert receive this honor instead. This made Robert a peer, and he became known as Baron Walpole, from the area of Walpole.
Marriage and Family Life
Around 1724, Lord Walpole married Margaret Rolle. She was 15 years old and came from a wealthy family. Margaret was the only surviving daughter of Colonel Samuel Rolle. She also inherited land and titles from her grandmother's side of the family.
However, their marriage was not a happy one. Lady Walpole often argued with Robert's family. After they had one son, they decided to live separately. Later, they officially separated.
In 1736, a famous singer and actress named Hannah Norsa became a close companion to Robert Walpole. She moved to his family home, Houghton Hall, in Norfolk. She stayed there until his death in 1751. Her support may have helped him avoid financial difficulties.
After Robert's death, his separated wife, Margaret, became the 15th Baroness Clinton. This was a title she inherited on her own. She later remarried but also separated from her second husband. Margaret passed away in Italy in 1781. Robert Walpole himself was buried at the Church of St Martin at Tours, which is on the Houghton Hall estate.
His Son and Successor
Robert Walpole and Margaret Rolle had one son together. Their son was George Walpole, 3rd Earl of Orford and 16th Baron Clinton. He inherited both of his parents' titles. George was known for his interest in falconry, which is the sport of hunting with trained birds of prey. He did not have any children of his own.
Important Roles and Career
Robert Walpole held several important positions during his life. These roles were part of the British government and local administration:
- Clerk of the Pells (1721–1739): This was a financial role in the government.
- Auditor of the Receipt of the Exchequer (1739–1751): Another key financial position, overseeing government money.
- Ranger of Richmond Park: This role involved managing Richmond Park, a large park in London.
- High Steward of Yarmouth: A local leadership position in Yarmouth.
- Lord Lieutenant of Devon (1733–1751): This was a representative of the King in the county of Devon.
