Sir Jacob Astley, 1st Baronet facts for kids
Sir Jacob Astley, 1st Baronet (born around 1639, died August 17, 1729) was an important English politician. He lived at a grand house called Melton Constable Hall in Norfolk. He was a member of the Tory political party, which was one of the main political groups in England at the time.
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Sir Jacob Astley's Early Life and Home
Sir Jacob Astley was the oldest son of Edward and Elizabeth Astley. His mother, Elizabeth, was the daughter of his uncle, Jacob Astley, 1st Baron Astley of Reading.
His Education
Young Jacob went to school at Norwich School. After that, he studied at two famous universities: King's College, Cambridge and Christ Church, Oxford. He started at Oxford in 1659.
Building a Grand Home
In 1659, Sir Jacob inherited large family lands. These included estates in Hillmorton, Warwickshire, and Melton Constable. In 1664, he began building the beautiful Melton Constable Hall that stands today. He also inherited estates in Maidstone, Kent, in 1688, but he later sold them in 1720.
Sir Jacob Astley's Career
Sir Jacob Astley was given the special title of Baronet on June 26, 1660. A Baronet is a hereditary title, meaning it can be passed down in the family.
Serving as High Sheriff
In 1664, he became the High Sheriff of Norfolk. This was an important local job, like being the chief law enforcement officer for the county.
His Time in Parliament
Sir Jacob was also a member of the British House of Commons. This is like being a member of parliament today. He represented the area of Norfolk several times:
- From 1685 to 1689
- From 1690 to 1701
- From 1702 to 1705
- From 1710 to 1722
He also worked as a Commissioner of Trade between 1714 and 1717. This meant he helped with decisions about trade and business for the country.
Sir Jacob Astley's Family Life
On February 6, 1661, Sir Jacob Astley married Blanche Wodehouse. She was the oldest daughter of Sir Philip Wodehouse, 3rd Baronet.
His Children
Sir Jacob and Blanche had five children together: four sons and one daughter.
His Legacy
Sir Jacob Astley passed away on August 17, 1729, and was buried at Melton Constable. His second and oldest surviving son, Philip, inherited his title and became the next Baronet. A later famous politician, Philip Metcalfe, was Sir Jacob's great-grandson.
