Sir George Downing, 3rd Baronet facts for kids

Sir George Downing, 3rd Baronet (born 1685 – died 1749), was an important British landowner and politician. He started his political life as a Tory but later became a Whig. He served in the House of Commons, which is like a main part of the British government, for many years between 1710 and 1749. He is most famous for leaving money in his will to create Downing College, Cambridge, a college at the famous Cambridge University.

About Sir George Downing

Sir George Downing was the only son of Sir George Downing, 2nd Baronet. His mother was Lady Catharine Cecil. His grandfather, who was also named George Downing, was honored with a special title in 1663. This grandfather is the person Downing Street in London, where the Prime Minister lives, is named after.

Lady Catharine, his mother, passed away in 1688. Young George was then raised by his aunt, Lady Mary Cecil Forester, and her husband, Sir William Forester. When George was about 15, he married his 13-year-old cousin, Mary Forester. She was Sir William's daughter. Mary later died in 1734 and they did not have any children.

Between his marriage and 1704, George traveled around Europe. He visited countries like the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, and Italy. While he was away, his wife Mary became a Maid of Honour for Queen Anne. This was a special job at the royal court. George had told her not to take this job.

When George returned, it was clear their marriage was not working well. They agreed on a financial plan in 1715. They later asked for a legal separation in 1717, which was granted. This meant they were legally independent, but neither could marry anyone else or have children who would be considered their legal heirs.

Political Life

Sir George Downing was a Member of Parliament (MP) for a place called Dunwich in Suffolk. This was a "pocket borough," meaning a powerful person could easily control who got elected there. He was first elected in 1710 and again in 1713.

He lost the election in 1715. However, with help from King George I, he won the seat back in 1722. He continued to be an MP for Dunwich until he passed away.

Sir George was not known as a very exciting politician. However, he was very loyal to the government leaders of his time, especially Robert Walpole and later Henry Pelham. Because of his loyalty, he was made a Knight Companion of the Order of the Bath in 1732. This was a special honor given by the King.

In 1711, Sir George inherited his father's special title and lands. He built a large and impressive family home called Gamlingay Park in Cambridgeshire.

Legacy and Downing College

Sir George Downing passed away in 1749 when he was 63 years old. His special title went to his cousin, Sir Jacob Downing, 4th Baronet.

In his will, Sir George made a very important decision. He stated that if his family line ended (meaning no more direct heirs), his large fortune and the Gamlingay estate should be used to start a new college at Cambridge University.

His cousin, Sir Jacob Downing, died without children in 1764. This meant Sir George's wish could come true. However, Sir Jacob's wife, Lady Margaret Downing, argued that the money should go to her instead. This led to a long legal battle that lasted for many decades and cost a lot of money.

Finally, the courts decided that Sir George's money should indeed be used to found a college at Cambridge. This led to the creation of Downing College, Cambridge in the year 1800. Lady Margaret then had the old Downing mansion torn down in 1776.

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  Sir George Downing