Thomas Whetham facts for kids

Thomas Whetham was an important English soldier and politician who lived from about 1665 to 1741. He was a member of the House of Commons, which is like a part of the government, between 1722 and 1727. He had a long and successful career in the army, rising through many ranks.

Thomas Whetham's Early Life and Family

Thomas Whetham was born around 1665. He was the first son of Nathaniel Whetham, who was a barrister (a type of lawyer). His grandfather, Colonel Nathaniel Whetham, was also a soldier. He fought in the English Civil War for the Parliament's army.

Thomas's mother was Elizabeth Scrope. Her family was from Wormsley, which is now in Buckinghamshire. Thomas's father passed away in 1667 when Thomas was very young. After that, Thomas decided to join the army. He started as an ensign (a low-ranking officer) in 1685 with the 1st Foot regiment.

Thomas Whetham's Military Journey

Thomas Whetham's army career saw him move between different regiments and gain many promotions. In 1694, he joined Sir James Lesley's Regiment of Foot as a captain lieutenant. Later that year, he became a full captain.

Before 1700, he was a major with the 11th Foot. Then, from 1702 to 1705, he was a colonel with the 27th Foot. He became a brigadier-general in 1707.

Important Army Leadership Roles

Thomas Whetham took on big leadership roles in the army. In 1709, he became the top commander in Canada, known as Commander-in-Chief, Canada. The next year, in 1710, he was promoted to major-general. By 1712, he was made the Commander-in-Chief, Scotland, leading the army there. During his time in the military, he served in many places, including Scotland, the West Indies, and Spain.

Fighting in the Jacobite Rising

In 1715, Thomas Whetham played a key part in the Jacobite rising of 1715. This was a rebellion in Scotland. He served under the Duke of Argyll. At the Battle of Sheriffmuir on November 13, 1715, General Whetham commanded the left side of the government's army.

Thomas Whetham's Political Life

After his military service, Thomas Whetham entered the world of politics. In 1722, he ran for a seat in the House of Commons. He won and became a Member of Parliament for Barnstaple. He served in this role until 1727, when he decided not to run for parliament again.

Later Military Ranks and Roles

Even after his time in politics, Thomas Whetham continued to advance in the army. In 1725, he became the colonel of the 12th Foot regiment. He held this important position until he passed away. He received further promotions, becoming a lieutenant-general in 1727 and finally a full general in 1739.

Around 1739, he bought some large estates in Nottinghamshire for a lot of money. In 1740, he was appointed the Governor of Berwick and Holy Island. Thomas Whetham was married to Mary Thompson. They had one son and one daughter together. General Thomas Whetham died on April 28, 1741.