Sir Robert Wilmot, 1st Baronet facts for kids

Sir Robert Wilmot, 1st Baronet (1708–1772) was an important English official who worked for the government. He served as a Secretary to many Viceroys of Ireland from 1740 to 1772. A Viceroy was like a governor, representing the King or Queen in Ireland. After 1758, Sir Robert also became Secretary to the Lord Chamberlain of the Household, another key role in the royal household. By 1750, many people saw him as the main person for all important matters concerning Ireland, especially about giving out jobs and favors.

Early Life and Education

Robert Wilmot was born in 1708. He was the older son of Robert Wilmot of Osmaston Hall. His younger brother, John Eardley Wilmot, later became a well-known judge. Robert Wilmot studied at Oxford University, finishing his studies in 1729. He also studied law at the Inner Temple, which is a famous place for legal training in London.

A Career in Public Service

Around 1730, Robert Wilmot started working as a private secretary for William Cavendish, 3rd Duke of Devonshire. This was the beginning of his long career in government.

Working for the Viceroy of Ireland

In 1737, the Duke of Devonshire was chosen to be the Viceroy of Ireland. Robert Wilmot moved up in his career too. He became the Viceroy's Deputy Resident Secretary in England. This meant he helped manage Irish affairs from England. In June 1740, he was promoted to Resident Secretary. He held this important position for twelve different Viceroys until he passed away in 1772.

Key Negotiator and Royal Secretary

Robert Wilmot played a big part in important talks. For example, he helped William Cavendish, 4th Duke of Devonshire during complex discussions. These talks led to the Duke briefly becoming the Prime Minister of Great Britain in 1756–57.

Because of his hard work and the Duke of Devonshire's support, Robert Wilmot received more honors. In 1758, he became the Deputy Secretary and later the Secretary to the Lord Chamberlain of the Household. This was a very respected position within the royal court.

Later Life and Legacy

In October 1772, Robert Wilmot was given the title of a baronet, becoming Sir Robert Wilmot, 1st Baronet of Osmaston. This was a special honor that could be passed down in his family. His eldest son, also named Robert, was able to inherit the baronetcy after him.

The official papers and records from Sir Robert Wilmot's work are kept in archives. You can find them at the Derbyshire Record Office and copies are also at the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland. These documents help historians understand more about how the government worked in his time.