Sir James Ashe, 2nd Baronet facts for kids

Sir James Ashe (born July 27, 1674, died November 8, 1733) was an English baronet. This means he held a special title passed down in his family. He was also a politician. Sir James was a member of the Whig party. He served in the English House of Commons from 1701 to 1705. This was like being a Member of Parliament today.

Early Life and Family Title

James Ashe was the oldest son of Sir Joseph Ashe. His mother was Mary Wilson. In 1686, when James was just eleven years old, his father passed away. James then became the 2nd Baronet. He inherited this special family title. Sir James owned land in a place called Wiltshire. He also owned parts of the East India Company. This was a very powerful trading company at the time.

His Time in Politics

Sir James Ashe became a Member of Parliament (MP) in 1701. He represented the area of Downton. His father had also been an MP for Downton before him. Sir James served as an MP until 1705. One year later, in 1706, he was given another important job. He was made the High Sheriff of Wiltshire. This role was like a chief law enforcement officer for the county. In 1708, he tried to become an MP for Downton again, but he was not successful that time.

Family Life and Legacy

In 1698, Sir James married his cousin, Elizabeth Bowyer. They had four daughters and one son. From 1709, Sir James and Elizabeth lived apart. However, they never officially divorced. Sir James Ashe died in 1733 at his home in Twickenham Meadows. He was buried at St Margaret's Church, Halstead, in Kent.

Sir James's son had died before him. Because of this, the baronetcy title ended when Sir James passed away. His only daughter who was still alive, Martha, inherited his property. There was a special condition for her to inherit. Her husband, Joseph Windham, had to add "Ashe" to his own last name. He did this by a special law passed in Parliament. Joseph Windham also later became an MP for Downton, just like Sir James.