Sir Christopher Musgrave, 4th Baronet facts for kids
Sir Christopher Musgrave, 4th Baronet (born around 1632 – died July 29, 1704) was an important English politician and landowner. He served in the House of Commons, which is like a part of today's Parliament, for a very long time, from 1661 until his death in 1704. He even briefly became the "Father of the House" in 1704, which means he was the member who had served the longest without a break.
Contents
Who Was Sir Christopher Musgrave?
Sir Christopher Musgrave was born around 1632. He was the son of Sir Philip Musgrave, 2nd Baronet and Julia Hutton. The Musgrave family lived at Edenhall.
His Early Life and Education
Christopher Musgrave went to Queen's College, Oxford University in 1651. He also studied law at Gray's Inn in 1654. When he was young, he supported the Royal cause. This meant he was on the side of the King during a time of political change in England. He was even a captain in the Guards before 1661.
Starting His Political Career
In 1661, Musgrave was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Carlisle. An MP is a person elected to represent an area in the House of Commons. This Parliament was known as the Cavalier Parliament.
- In 1671, he was knighted, which means he received the title "Sir."
- He became the Mayor of Carlisle in 1672.
- In 1677, he was made the governor of Carlisle.
He was re-elected as MP for Carlisle several times: in 1679 (twice), 1681, and 1685. From 1679 to 1681, he was a Commissioner of the Ordnance. This role involved managing military supplies and weapons. Around 1687, he became the 4th Baronet after his brother passed away. A Baronet is a special title that can be passed down in a family, similar to a knight but hereditary.
More Political Roles and Later Years
Sir Christopher Musgrave continued his long political career. He represented different areas in Parliament:
- In 1690, he was elected MP for Westmorland.
- In 1695, he became MP for Appleby.
- In 1698, he was elected MP for Oxford University.
- He was elected MP for Westmorland again in 1700.
- In 1701, he became MP for Totnes.
- He was elected MP for Westmorland for a third time in 1702.
In 1702, Queen Anne appointed him as one of the four tellers of the Exchequer. This was an important job in the government's financial department.
Sir Christopher Musgrave passed away on July 29, 1704, at the age of 72. He was buried in London.
His Family Life
Sir Christopher Musgrave was married twice.
- His first marriage was to Mary Cogan on May 31, 1660. Mary was the oldest daughter of Sir Andrew Cogan. She passed away in 1664.
- He married his second wife, Elizabeth Francklyn, on April 16, 1671. Elizabeth was the daughter of Sir John Francklyn. She passed away in 1701.
