Thomas Palmer (died 1735) facts for kids

Thomas Palmer was an important British lawyer and politician. He was active between 1700 and 1735. He was a member of the House of Commons, which is like the main law-making group in Britain. He was also a Fellow of the Royal Society, a group for top scientists.

Early Life and Family

Thomas Palmer was born in Fairfield, Stoke Coursey. His father, Nathaniel Palmer, was also a Member of Parliament (MP). His mother was Frances Wyndham.

Thomas went to New College, Oxford in 1700 to study. Later, in 1702, he joined the Middle Temple, which is a place where people train to become lawyers. He married Elizabeth Wroth. Her father, Sir Thomas Wroth, 3rd Baronet, was also an MP.

Political Career

Thomas Palmer became a Member of Parliament for Bridgwater, Somerset. He was first elected in 1715 without anyone running against him. He was elected again in 1722 after a vote.

In 1725, he was part of a big legal case involving Thomas Parker, 1st Earl of Macclesfield. This was a process to investigate a high-ranking official. Thomas Palmer did not run for election in 1727.

However, he was elected again for Bridgwater in 1731 during a special election. He won another election in 1734 and continued to serve as an MP until he passed away in 1735.

Other Important Roles

Besides being an MP, Thomas Palmer had other important jobs. From 1720 to 1734, he was the Recorder of Bridgwater. A Recorder is like a judge who helps with legal matters in a town.

In May 1726, he was chosen to be a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a special honor given to people who have done great things in science.

Later Life and Legacy

Thomas Palmer died in 1735 from an illness that doctors couldn't figure out. He wanted his body to be studied after his death. He hoped that by understanding his illness, doctors could help other people who might suffer from the same condition.

Thomas Palmer did not have any children. He left all his belongings to his wife.