Thomas Pelham, 1st Earl of Chichester facts for kids
Thomas Pelham, 1st Earl of Chichester (born February 28, 1728 – died January 8, 1805) was a British politician from the Whig Party. He was known as Lord Pelham of Stanmer for many years before he became an Earl.
Early Life and Education
Thomas Pelham was the son of Thomas Pelham and Annetta Bridges. His family had a long history in politics. For example, Thomas Pelham-Holles, 1st Duke of Newcastle, and Henry Pelham were his cousins.
He went to Westminster School in 1740. Later, he studied at Clare College, Cambridge starting in 1745. After his studies, he went on a long trip around Europe, called the Grand Tour. He traveled through France, Switzerland, Italy, and Germany between 1746 and 1750.
Political Career and Public Service
Thomas Pelham started his political career in 1749. He was elected to the House of Commons for Rye. He held this seat until 1754. After that, he represented Sussex in Parliament until 1768.
He held several important jobs in the government:
- He worked as a Commissioner of Trade and Plantations from 1754 to 1761.
- He was a Lord of the Admiralty from 1761 to 1762. This role involved managing the navy.
- From 1765 to 1774, he was the Comptroller of the Household.
- In 1765, he became a member of the Privy Council, which meant he advised the King.
In 1768, Thomas Pelham inherited the title of Baron Pelham of Stanmer from his cousin, the Duke of Newcastle. He also became a Baronet. He continued to serve the public in other roles, such as Surveyor-General of Customs of London from 1773 to 1805. In 1801, he was given the new title of Earl of Chichester.
In 1776, he bought the land and manor of Falmer.
Family Life
Thomas Pelham inherited the Stanmer Park estate in Sussex from his father in 1737. This was the family home.
In 1754, Lord Chichester married Anne Frankland. They had six children together: three sons and three daughters. Sadly, all three of their daughters and one of their sons passed away before him. His third son, George Pelham, became a bishop.
Lord Chichester passed away in January 1805 when he was 76 years old. His oldest son, Thomas, inherited his titles and also became a well-known politician. Lady Chichester passed away eight years later in 1813.
