Sir Gilbert Eliott, 3rd Baronet, of Stobs facts for kids

Sir Gilbert Eliott, 3rd Baronet, of Stobs (born around c. 1680 – died May 27, 1764) was an important Scottish politician. He was a member of the Whig party. He served in the British House of Commons from 1708 to 1727. Later in his life, he faced a difficult situation and had to leave the country for a short time. However, he was later allowed to return.

Sir Gilbert Eliott's Early Life

Gilbert Eliott was the oldest son of Sir William Eliott, 2nd Baronet. His father was also a politician in Scotland before Scotland and England joined together. Gilbert's mother was Margaret Murray. When his father passed away in 1699, Gilbert became the next Baronet. A Baronet is a special title, like a knight, that can be passed down in a family.

In 1702, Gilbert Eliott married Eleanora Elliot in London. She was the daughter of William Elliot.

His Time in Politics

The Eliott family of Stobs was very influential in the area of Roxburghshire, Scotland. For three generations, Gilbert's ancestors had represented the county in the Scottish Parliament.

In 1708, Gilbert Eliott was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Roxburghshire. This was for the new Parliament of Great Britain in Westminster, London. He was a member of the Whig party. In 1710, he voted to remove a person named Dr. Sacheverell from his position.

Gilbert started to make his own decisions in Parliament. In 1713, he supported an idea to end the union between Scotland and England. He also voted against a bill about trade with France. He was re-elected without anyone running against him in 1713. He often supported the Whigs but also worked with other politicians on issues important to Scotland.

Gilbert Eliott did not run in the 1715 election. Instead, William Douglas took his place. In 1722, Gilbert allowed another relative, Sir Gilbert Elliot, 2nd Baronet, of Minto, to become the MP. When this relative became a judge in 1726, Sir Gilbert Eliott was elected again to fill the empty seat.

A Challenging Time

Soon after being re-elected, Sir Gilbert was involved in a serious argument during a dinner. This argument with Colonel John Stewart led to a tragic event. Because of this, Sir Gilbert was declared an outlaw, meaning he had to leave the country. He went to Holland.

However, his friends, including Lord Minto and Lord Ilay, worked hard to help him. About a year later, Sir Gilbert received a royal pardon from the King. This allowed him to return safely to Scotland.

Later Life and Family

After returning to Scotland, Sir Gilbert Eliott lived a quiet life at his family home, Stobs Castle. This castle was near Hawick in Roxburghshire. He passed away in 1764 when he was about 84 years old.

Sir Gilbert and his wife had many children. They had ten sons and one daughter. One of their notable sons was George Augustus Eliott, who later became Lord Heathfield. After Sir Gilbert's death, his son John became the next Baronet.