Sir Philip Stephens, 1st Baronet facts for kids

Sir Philip Stephens (born October 11, 1723 – died November 20, 1809) was an important British politician. He served in the House of Commons for a very long time, 47 years! He was the last Member of Parliament who had worked when King George II was still alive. Later in his career, he became the First Secretary of the Admiralty, which was a top job in the British Navy. He was also a good friend of the famous explorer Captain James Cook. Places like Caroline Island in the Pacific and Stephens Island in Canada were named after him or his family.

Sir Philip Stephens: A Life in Government

Early Life and Education

Philip Stephens came from a family in Eastington, Gloucestershire. He was the youngest son of Nathaniel Stephens, a church leader in Alphamstone, Essex, where Philip was born. He went to school in Harwich. Early in his life, he got a job as a clerk in the navy's food supply office. His older brother, Tyringham Stephens, had worked there before him.

Rising Through the Ranks

After his trip around the world, Admiral George Anson noticed young Philip Stephens. Anson helped him move to the Admiralty, which managed the Royal Navy. Stephens then became Anson's secretary. Later, he was made Assistant Secretary of the Admiralty. In 1763, he became the main Secretary. He held this important job for over thirty years.

In 1771, he became a Fellow of the Royal Society. This group recognizes top scientists. From 1768 to 1806, he was a Member of Parliament for Sandwich. He eventually became the "Father of the House." This title goes to the longest-serving Member of Parliament.

Retirement and Legacy

In 1795, Philip Stephens asked to leave his job at the Admiralty. On March 17, he was made a Baronet. This is a special title that makes someone "Sir." He was also appointed as one of the Lords of the Admiralty.

In 1806, at 81 years old, Stephens was given a pension of £1,600. He received this money until he passed away on November 20, 1809. He was buried in Fulham church.

Philip Stephens had one son, Captain Thomas Stephens. Sadly, his son died in 1790. His nephew, Colonel Stephens Howe, also passed away before him. Because of this, the baronetcy title ended when Sir Philip died. His only daughter, Caroline Elizabeth, married Thomas Jones in 1804. She died the next year. Sir Philip left all his money to his daughter's husband.

Career at the Admiralty

A Powerful Position

For 32 years, Sir Philip Stephens was the Secretary to the Admiralty. This made him one of the most powerful people in Britain. He worked during a time when Britain and France were often rivals. This included after Britain's success in the Seven Years' War. It also covered the American Revolutionary War and the start of the French Revolution.

Supporting Explorers

Stephens was key in sending out many famous explorers to the Pacific Ocean. These included John Byron, James Cook, William Bligh, and George Vancouver. Their voyages helped map the world and discover new lands.