Sir Walter Stirling, 1st Baronet facts for kids

Sir Walter Stirling, 1st Baronet (born June 24, 1758 – died August 25, 1832) was an important English banker and politician. He was given the special title of Baronet, which is a hereditary honor from the King or Queen, like a knight but passed down through the family.

Sir Walter Stirling: A Life of Service

Sir Walter Stirling was born in Philadelphia. His father was Captain Walter Stirling, a naval officer from Scotland. His mother was Dorothy Willing, from Philadelphia.

Early Life and Family

Sir Walter was involved in military volunteer groups during his younger years. He served as an officer in several groups, including the Somerset Place Volunteers and the Prince of Wales's Loyal Middlesex Volunteers. These groups helped keep order and supported the country.

In 1794, Sir Walter married Susannah Goodenough. She was the daughter of George Trenchard Goodenough. They had one son and four daughters. Sadly, Lady Stirling passed away in 1806. She was buried in St Mary's Church in Harmondsworth.

From Banker to Politician

Sir Walter had a successful career in finance. He was a director at the Globe Insurance Company. He was also a junior partner in a bank called Hodsoll and Michel. This bank later changed its name to Hodsoll and Stirling. Being a director and partner meant he helped run these important businesses.

Serving in Parliament

Sir Walter Stirling also became a politician. He was elected as a MP. An MP is a person chosen by voters to represent them in the country's government, called Parliament. He represented two different areas:

• Gatton, Surrey from 1799 to 1802.
• St Ives, Cornwall from 1807 to 1820.

As an MP, he helped make laws and decisions for the country.

Other Important Roles

In 1800, he was given the title of Baronet. This was a special honor for his service. He also held the important position of High Sheriff of Kent from 1804 to 1805. A High Sheriff was a royal official responsible for law and order in a county.

Sir Walter was also a member of two respected academic groups:

• The Society of Antiquaries. This group studies history and old objects.
• The Royal Society. He became a Fellow (member) in 1801. This society promotes science and knowledge.

His Legacy

Sir Walter Stirling passed away in 1832. His son, Sir Walter George Stirling, 2nd Baronet, inherited his title and became the 2nd Baronet. Sir Walter Stirling is remembered for his contributions as a banker, a politician, and his involvement in various important societies.