Sir John Austen, 1st Baronet facts for kids

Sir John Austen, 1st Baronet (born after 1673 – died 22 March 1742) was an important British landowner and politician. He lived in places like Derehams, South Mimms, and Highgate in Middlesex, England. Sir John was a member of the British Parliament, serving in both the English and British House of Commons between 1701 and 1727. He was part of the Whig political group.

Early Life and Family Background

John Austen was the son of Thomas Austen. His mother was Arabella Forset. She was the daughter of Edward Forset. His parents got married on 13 October 1673. From his mother's family, John inherited a large estate called the Manor of Tyburn. This area is now known as Marylebone. In 1710, he sold this manor to a very important person, John Holles, who was the 1st Duke of Newcastle.

A Career in Politics

Sir John Austen was a Member of Parliament, which means he was elected to represent people in the government. He represented the area of Middlesex.

First Time in Parliament

He first became a Member of Parliament for Middlesex from 1701 to 1702. This was in the English House of Commons, before England and Scotland fully joined to form Great Britain.

Serving in the British Parliament

After a break, he was elected again in 1708. He served in the British House of Commons until 1710. On 16 November 1714, he was given a special title: he became a baronet. This is a hereditary title, like a knight, but it can be passed down in the family.

Later Elections and Retirement

Sir John tried to get elected again in 1715 for Middlesex, but he did not win that time. However, he was successful in the 1722 election and became an MP for Middlesex once more. He decided not to run for election in 1727, choosing to retire from politics.

Land and Legacy

Besides the Manor of Tyburn, Sir John also inherited another important estate called the Manor of Highbury in Islington. He sold this property in 1723. In 1733, he sold the future rights to the Manor of Derhams.

Sir John Austen never married. He passed away on 22 March 1742. He was buried in South Mimms, next to his sister Arabella, who had died earlier in 1714. Since he had no children, his baronetcy title ended when he died. His remaining property was given to Mary Wright, a single woman.