Sir Robert Buxton, 3rd Baronet facts for kids

Sir Robert Jacob Buxton (born March 13, 1829 – died January 20, 1888) was an English politician. He was a member of the Conservative Party and served in the House of Commons, which is a main part of the UK Parliament, from 1871 to 1885. He was also known as the 3rd Baronet of his family. A Baronet is a special title, like a knight, that is passed down through families.

Early Life and Family Connections

Robert Jacob Buxton was born into an important family. His father was Sir John Buxton, 2nd Baronet, and his mother was Elizabeth Cholmeley. Elizabeth's father was Sir Montague Cholmeley, 1st Baronet, so Robert had connections to two Baronet families. He went to Christ Church, Oxford, a famous university, to study.

Serving His Community

Before becoming a politician, Robert Buxton was involved in local activities. In 1852, he became a lieutenant in a group called the 1st Suffolk Yeoman Cavalry. This was a type of volunteer military unit. Later, in 1860, he became a captain in the 29th Norfolk Rifle Volunteers. He also served as a Justice of the Peace (J.P.) and a Deputy Lieutenant (D.L.) for the areas of Suffolk and Norfolk. These roles meant he helped with local law and order and represented the Crown. In 1870, he held the important position of High Sheriff of Norfolk, which was a ceremonial role responsible for law enforcement in the county.

Becoming a Member of Parliament

Robert Buxton first tried to become a Member of Parliament (MP) in 1859 for the area of Bury St Edmunds, but he didn't win that election. However, he got another chance in 1871. There was a special election called a "by-election" for the South Norfolk area, and this time he was elected. He served as the MP for South Norfolk until 1885. His time in Parliament ended because of a new law that changed how many MPs each area had.

Family Life and Legacy

In 1856, Robert Buxton married Mary Augusta Harriet Johnstone. She was the only daughter of a military officer named Lieutenant-Colonel Johnstone. Robert and Mary did not have any sons. This meant that when Robert died in 1888, the special title of Baronet for his family line came to an end.

His daughter, Maud Isabel Buxton, later married Gerard James Barnes in 1901. The next year, Gerard changed his name to Buxton and also took on the Buxton family's coat of arms. However, Maud and Gerard eventually sold the family's main estate.