Sir William Grierson, 2nd Baronet facts for kids
Sir William Grierson, 2nd Baronet (born around 1677 – died 1760), was an important Scottish figure. He came from Rockhall, Lag, Dumfries. Sir William was a supporter of the Jacobite cause and a Tory politician. He served in the British Parliament from 1709 to 1711. He faced challenges due to his involvement in the 1715 Jacobite rebellion.
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Early Life and Family
William Grierson was the oldest son of Sir Robert Grierson, 1st Baronet and Lady Henrietta Douglas. The title of "Baronet" is a special honor passed down through families, similar to a knight but hereditary.
Political Career
In 1704, William Grierson worked as a Scottish Commissioner of Supply. This meant he helped manage local government and resources.
He tried to become a Member of Parliament (MP) for Dumfriesshire in the 1708 election but did not win. However, he was elected as an MP for Dumfriesshire in a special election on April 7, 1709.
In the 1710 election, he was asked to step aside for another candidate, Hon. James Murray. But Sir William refused and won his seat back. Later, his election was challenged, and he lost his seat in Parliament on February 22, 1711.
Involvement in the Jacobite Rising
Sir William Grierson was a supporter of the Jacobites. This group wanted to bring the Stuart family back to the throne of Great Britain. In 1715, he joined Lord Kenmure in the Jacobite rising of 1715. This rebellion ended in defeat at the Battle of Preston.
After the rebellion, Sir William faced difficulties because of his actions. He was held in Newgate prison and later received a pardon in 1725.
Later Life and Legacy
In 1720, Sir William Grierson married Anne Musgrave. She was the daughter of Sir Richard Musgrave, 2nd Baronet. They married in Aspatria, Cumberland, England.
In 1733, Sir William became the 2nd Baronet after his father passed away. He did not have any children. He passed away in 1760 and was buried at Dunscore Parish Kirkyard.
His nephew, Sir Robert Grierson, became the 3rd Baronet. Sir Robert was born around 1700 and also passed away without children in 1764.
