Sir Thomas Reade, 4th Baronet facts for kids
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Sir Thomas Reade (born around 1684, died 1752) was an important British politician and courtier. He lived at Shipton Court in Oxfordshire. For 34 years, from 1713 to 1747, he was a Member of Parliament. This means he helped make laws for the country. He was part of the Whig political group. He also worked closely with the royal family.
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Meet Sir Thomas Reade
His Family and Early Life
Thomas Reade was the second son of Sir Edward Reade, 2nd Baronet. His mother was Elizabeth Harby. He had an older brother named Winwood and a younger brother, George. When his older brother, Sir Winwood Reade, died in 1692, Thomas became the 4th Baronet. This title was passed down in his family. He also inherited Shipton Court. In 1719, he married Jane Mary Dutton. She was the daughter of Sir Ralph Dutton, 1st Baronet.
His Time in Politics
Sir Thomas Reade first tried to become a Member of Parliament (MP) in 1710. He ran for the area of Oxfordshire but did not win. However, in the 1713 election, he was successfully elected as an MP for Cricklade.
He continued to represent Cricklade in Parliament for many years. In 1715, he won his election without anyone running against him. In later elections, like those in 1722, 1727, and 1734, he faced competition but still won. In the 1741 election, there was a problem where two people were declared winners. But Sir Thomas Reade was officially confirmed as the elected MP in December 1741. He decided not to run for Parliament in the 1747 election.
Working for the King
Besides being an MP, Sir Thomas Reade also worked for the royal family. From about 1722 to 1727, he was the Clerk of the Household for the Prince of Wales. This was an important job helping to manage the Prince's home. When the Prince of Wales became King George II in 1727, Sir Thomas Reade was promoted. He became the Clerk of the Green Cloth. He held this position until he died. This role involved managing the royal household's expenses and daily operations.
Later Life and Legacy
Sir Thomas Reade passed away on September 25, 1752. People who knew him spoke highly of him. Henry Pelham, another important figure, described him as "an old servant of the King's, and a very honest man." Sir Thomas and his wife had one child, a son named John. John inherited his father's title and became the 5th Baronet.
