Sir Nicholas Williams, 1st Baronet facts for kids
Sir Nicholas Williams, 1st Baronet (born 1681 – died 19 July 1745) was an important British politician.
Nicholas Williams was the oldest son of Sir Rice Williams. His family lived at Edwinsford in Carmarthenshire, Wales. He went to two famous schools: Eton College and Queens' College, Cambridge.
Early Life and Titles
Nicholas Williams became a special leader in his home county. From 1697 to 1698, he was the High Sheriff of Carmarthenshire. This was an important role, like a chief officer for the county.
In 1707, he received a special title. He became a baronet on July 30, 1707. A baronet is a title given by the King or Queen. It is passed down through families, but it is not a noble title like a lord.
Political Career
Sir Nicholas Williams was a Member of Parliament (MP) for many years. From 1724 until he died, he represented Carmarthenshire in the Parliament of Great Britain. Being an MP meant he helped make laws for the country.
He also held another important job. From 1735 to 1740, he was the Lord Lieutenant of Carmarthenshire. This role meant he was the King's personal representative in the county. He worked to keep order and support the government.
Sir Nicholas was a strong supporter of Robert Walpole. Walpole was a very powerful politician at the time. He is often seen as Britain's first Prime Minister.
Family Life
Sir Nicholas Williams married Mary Cocks on June 19, 1712. Her father was Charles Cocks, and her aunt was the famous John Somers, 1st Baron Somers. The wedding took place in St Mildred, Poultry, London.
Sir Nicholas and Mary did not have any children. Because of this, when Sir Nicholas died in 1745, his baronet title ended. It could not be passed on to an heir. His family's land eventually went to other relatives, the Hamlyn-Williams baronets.
After Sir Nicholas passed away, his brother Thomas took over some of his duties. Thomas became the Custos Rotulorum of Carmarthenshire. This job involved keeping the county records and managing local justice.
