Sir Robert Pollock, 1st Baronet facts for kids

Sir Robert Pollock, 1st Baronet (born around 1665 – died August 22, 1735) was an important figure in Scottish history. He was a British Army officer and a Scottish politician. He served in the Parliament of Scotland from 1700 to 1707. After Scotland and England joined to form Great Britain, he served in the British House of Commons from 1707 to 1722. He lived at Pollock Castle.

Sir Robert Pollock: A Life in Politics

Sir Robert Pollock was a notable person from the Pollok family. He was given the title of "Baronet," which is a special honor passed down through families. He played a role in both military and political life during a time of big changes in Great Britain.

Early Years and Family

Robert Pollock was the oldest son of Robert Pollock and his second wife, Jean Crawford. His father passed away in 1673, and Robert inherited his family's estate. He received his education in Glasgow in 1679.

Military and Political Beginnings

Sir Robert began his career in the military. In 1689, he was a lieutenant in a group of horse soldiers. By 1690, he became a captain. He also served as a major in a foot soldier regiment from 1694 to 1698.

In 1700, he was chosen to represent Renfrewshire in the Parliament of Scotland. He served there until 1707. This was the year the Acts of Union were passed, which joined Scotland and England to create Great Britain. In 1703, he was given the title of Baronet.

Serving in Parliament

After the Union in 1707, Sir Robert Pollock became one of Scotland's representatives in the first Parliament of Great Britain. It was sometimes hard for him to find a seat in elections. However, in 1710, he was elected without opposition as a Member of Parliament for Renfrewshire.

He continued his military career too. In 1710, he became a lieutenant-colonel, and by 1712, he was a colonel. He was re-elected for Renfrewshire in 1713 and 1715. He was also appointed Governor of Fort William in 1715, which was an important military position. By 1722, he lost support and did not win his seat in Parliament again.

Family Life and Legacy

Sir Robert Pollock was married twice. His first wife was Annabella Cathcart, who sadly passed away. He then married Annabella Stewart.

In 1686, he completely rebuilt Pollock Castle, turning it into a grand stately home. He had four sons and three daughters. Sadly, his four sons passed away before him. His children included:

• Elizabeth Pollock, who married Alexander Hamilton in 1730.
• Jean Pollock.
• Annabella Pollock.
• Walter Pollock, whose son became the 2nd Baronet.

Sir Robert Pollock passed away on August 22, 1735. His grandson, Robert, became the 2nd Baronet. However, when this Robert died in 1783, the special title of Baronet for the Pollock family ended.

His Famous Grandson

Through his daughter Elizabeth, Sir Robert Pollock was the great-grandfather of Alexander Hamilton. Alexander Hamilton became a very famous person in the United States. He was the first Secretary of the Treasury for the United States.