Sir Thomas Metcalfe, 1st Baronet facts for kids
Sir Thomas Theophilus Metcalfe, 1st Baronet (born January 8, 1745 – died November 17, 1813) was an important British soldier and politician. He played a role in managing British affairs in India and later served in the British Parliament.
Contents
Sir Thomas Metcalfe: A British Leader
Early Life and Career in India
Thomas Metcalfe was born in England, in a place called Throstle Nest, Gisborough. His father, Thomas Metcalfe, was a chaplain (a type of priest) in the British Army.
In 1767, Thomas Metcalfe traveled to India. He joined the army of the East India Company, which was a very powerful British trading company. He rose through the ranks and became a major in the Bengal Army, a part of the East India Company's forces.
Metcalfe also became one of the leaders, or "Directors," of the East India Company. He held this important position on and off between 1789 and 1812. During his time, he became very wealthy. He used his money to buy large properties in England, including a big house and land called the manor of Chilton and an estate in Fernhill.
Serving in Parliament
In 1796, Thomas Metcalfe was chosen by the people of Abingdon to be a Member of Parliament (MP). He belonged to the Tory political party. He represented Abingdon in Parliament until he lost the election in 1807.
Most of his work in Parliament was about India and how it was managed. He was very knowledgeable about the country due to his time there. On December 21, 1802, he was given a special title: he became a baronet. This title, "Baronet of Chilton," was a high honor, similar to a knight, but it could be passed down in his family. In 1809, he also served as the High Sheriff of Berkshire, which was an important local role.
His Family
Sir Thomas Metcalfe married Susannah Selina Sophia Debonnaire on April 18, 1782. They had eight children together:
- Sir Theophilus John Metcalfe, who became the 2nd Baronet
- Charles Metcalfe, 1st Baron Metcalfe (1785–1846)
- Louisa Sophia Metcalfe (1787–?)
- Selina Sophia Metcalfe (1788–1791)
- Emily Theophila Metcalfe (1790–1885)
- Georgiana Theophila Metcalfe
- Sir Thomas Metcalfe, 4th Baronet (1795–1853)
- Henry Theophilus Metcalfe
