Sir William Drake, 4th Baronet facts for kids
Sir William Drake, 4th Baronet (1658–1716) was an important English politician. He lived at Mount Drake and Ashe House in Musbury, Devon. Sir William was a member of the English and later the British Parliament from 1690 to 1715. He was part of the Tory political group.
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Early Life and Education
Sir William Drake was a younger son of Sir John Drake, 1st Baronet. He began his studies at Oriel College, Oxford in 1675. He earned his first degree (BA) in 1679. Later, he received his master's degree (MA) in 1683 from Corpus Christi College, Oxford.
Becoming a Baronet
In 1685, William Drake was made a knight. This was an honor given by the King. Two years later, in 1687, he became the 4th Baronet. He inherited this title after his brother Bernard passed away.
Family and Homes
Sir William Drake married Judith Eveleigh in 1687. She was the daughter of William Eveleigh. In 1694, he inherited his family homes, Mount Drake and Ashe House, from his sister. After Judith passed away, he married Mary Prideaux in 1705. She was the daughter of Sir Peter Prideaux, 3rd Baronet.
Political Career
Sir William Drake had a long career in politics. He was a Member of Parliament (MP) for many years. An MP is someone elected to represent a specific area in Parliament.
Representing Honiton and Dartmouth
From 1690 to 1715, Sir William represented the area of Honiton in Parliament. For a short time, from 1713 to 1715, he also represented Dartmouth.
Role in the Admiralty
From 1710 to 1714, Sir William Drake served as a Lord of the Admiralty. This was an important role. The Lords of the Admiralty were in charge of managing the Royal Navy, which was the country's powerful fleet of ships.
Later Life and Legacy
Sir William Drake passed away in 1716. He had five children with his first wife, Judith: two sons and three daughters. Both of his sons, John and William, later became Baronets after him.
