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Sir Charles Turner, 1st Baronet, of Warham facts for kids

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The family crest of the Turner Baronets.

Sir Charles Turner, 1st Baronet (born 1666 – died 1738) was an important English politician. He came from Warham, Norfolk. Sir Charles was a lawyer and a member of the Whig political party. He served in the British Parliament for a very long time – 43 years! From 1695 to 1738, he was a MP. He was also the brother-in-law of Sir Robert Walpole, who became the first Prime Minister. By 1730, Sir Charles was the longest-serving MP in the House of Commons.

Early Life and Family

Charles Turner was born in 1666. His father, William Turner, was a lawyer in North Elmham, Norfolk. His mother was Anne Spooner. Charles went to school in Scarning and Norwich. He then studied at Caius College, Cambridge in 1681. He also trained to be a lawyer at the Middle Temple in 1684, just like his father.

Charles's family became more successful over time. He also made important connections, especially with the Walpole family. In April 1689, he married Mary Walpole. She was the daughter of Robert Walpole and the sister of the famous Sir Robert Walpole.

Starting His Political Career

In 1695, Charles helped his father-in-law get elected in a general election. At the same time, Charles himself became a MP for King's Lynn. His uncle, Sir John Turner, was also elected with him.

Charles was made a knight on March 22, 1696. After this, his position in Parliament was very strong. He was elected without anyone opposing him in every election for the rest of his life.

Important Roles and Achievements

Sir Charles Turner held many important jobs in the government. In 1707, he became a Lord of Trade. Then, from 1714 to 1717, he served as a Lord of the Admiralty. This role involved managing the navy.

In 1720, he was appointed a Lord of the Treasury. This meant he helped manage the country's money. On April 27, 1727, he was given the special title of baronet. From 1729, he worked as a Teller of the Exchequer. He retired from his role as Lord of the Treasury in 1730. In the same year, he became the "Father of the House," which is a title given to the longest-serving MP.

Later Life

Sir Charles's first wife, Mary, passed away in 1701. By 1705, he married his second wife, Mary Catelyn. She was the widow of Sir Nevil Catelyn and the daughter of Sir William Blois.

Sir Charles Turner died suddenly on November 24, 1738, at Houghton. He was buried in Warham. He had one son with his first wife, but his son died before him. He also had four daughters. His younger brother, John, took over his title as baronet.

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