Sir William Curtis, 1st Baronet facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir William Curtis
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Sir William Curtis (center) in an 1809 cartoon about the Walcheren Expedition, with military leaders John Pitt, 2nd Earl of Chatham and Marshal Bernadotte
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18 January 1829 (aged 76) England, United Kingdom
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| Nationality | English |
| Occupation | Businessman, banker, politician |
Sir William Curtis (born January 25, 1752 – died January 18, 1829) was an important English businessman, banker, and politician. He had a long career in both business and politics, which were often connected. He was especially well-known for the big parties and dinners he hosted.
Contents
Sir William Curtis's Life and Career
Early Life and Family Business
William Curtis was born in Wapping, a part of London. His father, Joseph Curtis, made sea biscuits and other dry foods for ships, especially for the Royal Navy. These were important supplies for long voyages.
His family also owned ships. These ships were used to transport prisoners to Australia. They also took part in whaling in the South Pacific Ocean.
Political Journey and Public Service
Sir William Curtis was a member of the Tory political party for his whole life. In 1790, he was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for the City of London. This meant he helped make laws for the country. He held this position for 28 years in a row.
After losing his seat in 1818, he was elected again in 1819 for Bletchingley. Then, in 1820, he was elected back to represent the City of London. He later served as an MP for Hastings before retiring from politics.
Besides being an MP, Curtis also held important roles in the City of London. He became an Alderman, which is a senior member of the city council. In 1788, he was the Sheriff of London, and in 1795–96, he became the Lord Mayor. These were very important jobs in the city.
Baronet and Later Years
In 1802, William Curtis was given the title of Baronet. This meant he became "Sir William Curtis, 1st Baronet of Cullonds Grove." This was a special honor from the King.
He was famous for the grand parties he held at his home, Cullands Grove. These parties were known for being very fancy and having lots of food and guests.
Sir William Curtis passed away in 1829. After his death, his belongings were sold in a large auction that lasted for a week.
Images for kids
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Memorial to Sir William Curtis in St George's Church, Ramsgate, Kent
See also
- Lady Penrhyn: A ship partly owned by Curtis. It carried the first group of prisoners to New South Wales, Australia, in 1788.
- Curtis Island, New Zealand: One of the Kermadec Islands named after Sir William Curtis by the Lady Penrhyn ship.
- Butterworth Squadron: A group of ships that went on a whaling and fur trading trip to the Pacific Ocean in 1792. Curtis was a main investor in this trip.
