Sir Thomas Powell, 1st Baronet facts for kids
Sir Thomas Powell, 1st Baronet (born around 1665 – died August 22, 1720), was an important Welsh lawyer and politician. He came from Broadway in Laugharne, Carmarthenshire, and also lived at Coldbrook Park in Abergavenny, Monmouthshire. He played a role in the government of his time.
Early Life and Education
Sir Thomas Powell was the only son of Sir John Powell. His father was a judge from Carmarthenshire. Sir John lived in Pentre Meyrick, Llanwrda, and Broadway.
Young Thomas went to St Catharine's College, Cambridge for his education. After that, he decided to study law. He joined the Middle Temple in 1681. This was a place where people learned to become lawyers. He officially became a lawyer in 1687. This is called being "called to the Bar." Later, in 1702, he became a "reader," which was a senior position for lawyers.
Legal Career and Baronetcy
Sir Thomas Powell had a successful career in law. In 1698, he became the recorder of Oswestry. A recorder was a judge who helped manage the legal system in a town.
He also worked as the attorney-general for the Carmarthen circuit. This was a legal area he covered from 1695 to 1715. An attorney-general is a chief legal officer. In 1698, he was given the title of a baronet. This is a special honor from the King or Queen.
Political Career
Sir Thomas Powell was also a Member (MP). An MP is a person elected to represent an area in Parliament. Parliament is where laws are made.
He was an MP for Monmouth Boroughs. He served in the Parliament of England from 1705 to 1708. Later, he became an MP for Carmarthenshire. He served in the Parliament of Great Britain from 1710 to 1715.
Family Life
Sir Thomas Powell was married two times. His first wife was Elizabeth. She was the daughter of Thomas Mansel from Briton Ferry, Glamorgan.
His second wife was Judith. She was the daughter and heiress of Sir James Herbert. Judith inherited Coldbrook Park from her father. Sir Thomas Powell had one son. Sadly, his son passed away just one year after Sir Thomas himself died. He also had several daughters.
