Spencer Cowper facts for kids

A painting of Spencer Cowper

Spencer Cowper (born February 23, 1670 – died December 10, 1728) was an important English lawyer and politician. He served in the English and British Parliament, which is like a country's main law-making group, from 1705 to 1727.

Early Life and Education

Spencer Cowper was the second son of Sir William Cowper, a well-known figure from Hertford, and his mother, Lady Sarah Cowper, who kept a diary. He went to a famous school called Westminster School. After his studies, he became a lawyer in 1693. In 1690, he also took on a job managing the Bridge House Estates, which were properties that helped support London Bridge. He even lived in a house near St Olave's Church, Southwark in London.

A Career in Law and Politics

Spencer Cowper had a long and successful career. He worked as a lawyer and then became involved in politics.

Serving in Parliament

In 1705, Spencer Cowper was elected to Parliament, representing a place called Bere Alston. He was re-elected in 1708. He also helped manage the trial of a person named Henry Sacheverell, which was a big event at the time. After this, he lost his seat in Parliament in 1710.

However, he returned to public service. In 1714, he became the chief lawyer for the Prince of Wales, who would later become King George II.

Becoming a Judge

Spencer Cowper was elected as a Member of Parliament again in 1715, this time for Truro. In 1717, he was given an important job as the chief judge of Chester. When George II became king in 1727, Cowper received even more important roles. He became the chief lawyer for the duchy of Lancaster and then a judge in a high court called the Common Pleas.

Spencer Cowper passed away on December 10, 1728. He was buried at his family's home in Hertingfordbury, where a special monument was built to remember him.

Spencer Cowper's Family

Spencer Cowper was married twice. His first wife, Pennington, passed away in 1727. He then married his second wife, Theodora, shortly before his own death in 1728. Theodora was the one who asked for the monument to be built for him.

Spencer Cowper had several children who also became notable:

• His oldest son, William Cowper, worked for Parliament. William's son, also named William Cowper, became a general.
• His second son, John, was the father of a very famous English poet named William Cowper.
• His third son, Ashley, was also a lawyer and worked for Parliament. Ashley had two daughters, Theodora and Harriot.
• Spencer Cowper's only daughter was Judith Madan, who was a talented poet. She married Colonel Martin Madan (MP).