Thomas Scawen facts for kids

Sir Thomas Scawen (born around 1650 – died 22 September 1730) was an important British businessman and politician. He was a successful merchant, which means he bought and sold goods, and a financier, someone who managed money. He was also a member of the Whig political party. Sir Thomas served in the British House of Commons, which is like a part of the government, from 1708 to 1722. He even became the Governor of the Bank of England for a few years, from 1721 to 1723.

Early Life

Thomas Scawen was born in England around 1650. His father was Robert Scawen, who lived in a place called Horton, Buckinghamshire. His mother was Catherine Alsop. On September 8, 1691, Thomas Scawen married Martha Wessell. Her father, Abraham Wessell, was also a merchant in London.

His Career

Just like his brother William, Thomas Scawen became a very successful businessman in London. He was part of the Worshipful Company of Fishmongers, which was a group for people involved in the fish trade. He joined them in 1671 and became a full member in 1679.

Sir Thomas was a director at the Bank of England for many years, from 1705 to 1719. In 1708, he was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for a place called Grampound. This meant he helped make decisions in the government. He also led the Fishmongers’ Company from 1708 to 1710.

In 1712, he became an alderman for Cornhill, London. An alderman was an important local official. He was given the special title of "Sir" in 1714.

In 1715, Sir Thomas was elected as a Member of Parliament again, this time for the City of London. After being a director, he became the Governor of the Bank of England in 1721. This was a very important job, overseeing the country's money. In 1722, he inherited a large estate called Horton from his brother William. After being Governor, he served as a Deputy Governor of the Bank of England until he passed away.

Death and Family

Sir Thomas Scawen died on September 22, 1730. He was buried in Horton, Buckinghamshire. He and his wife Martha had five sons and four daughters. His oldest son, also named Thomas, inherited the Horton estate. His other properties went to his younger sons. Some of his daughters married into important families, like Catherine who married Sir John Shelley, 4th Baronet.