Sir George Duckett, 2nd Baronet facts for kids
Sir George Duckett, 2nd Baronet (born 17 July 1777 – died 15 June 1856) was an important British landowner and politician. A baronet is a special title, like a knight, that can be passed down in a family. Sir George inherited this title from his father.
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Early Life and Name Change
George Duckett was born George Jackson on 17 July 1777. He was the only son of his father, who was also named George Jackson. Later, on 3 February 1797, his father changed the family name to Duckett. This meant young George also became known as George Duckett.
Joining the Militia
In 1797, when he was 20 years old, George joined the West Essex militia. A militia was like a local army that helped protect the country. He started as a lieutenant and quickly moved up in rank:
- In 1798, he became a captain.
- In 1804, he was promoted to major.
- By 1805, he reached the rank of lieutenant-colonel.
Becoming a Politician
George Duckett also had a career in politics.
- In 1807, he was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for a place called Lymington. An MP is someone chosen by people to represent them in the country's government. He took over this role from his brother-in-law, Sir Harry Burrard Neale.
- In 1812, he was elected again, this time for Plympton Erle. However, he decided to leave politics later that same year.
Inheriting a Title and Financial Challenges
On 15 December 1822, George Duckett inherited his father's title, becoming the 2nd Baronet. This meant he was now called Sir George Duckett. With the title, he also inherited some valuable things, like the right to collect money from boats using the Stort Navigation waterway.
However, Sir George faced some financial difficulties. He invested money in a bank called Duckett, Morland and Co., and in a canal project called the Hertford Union Canal, which did not do well. Because of these problems, he sold his family home, Hartham House, in 1825. By 1832, he had lost a lot of money and faced serious financial troubles.
Later Life and Legacy
Sir George Duckett passed away on 15 June 1856. After his death, his only son, George Floyd Duckett, inherited the baronetcy and became the 3rd Baronet.
