William Ashburnham, 2nd Baron Ashburnham facts for kids

William Ashburnham (born May 21, 1679 – died June 16, 1710) was an important English person who owned land and was a politician. He was known as the 2nd Baron Ashburnham. He served in the English and British Parliament from 1702 until 1710. After his father passed away, he became a "Baron" and joined the House of Lords, which is another part of Parliament.

Early Life and Family

William Ashburnham was the oldest son of John Ashburnham, 1st Baron Ashburnham. His mother was Bridget Vaughan. Her family lived in a place called Porthammel House in Brecknockshire.

Journey into Politics

William Ashburnham wanted to become a Member of Parliament (MP). An MP is someone elected to represent people in the House of Commons. His father first suggested him for the area of Hastings in 1701, but he did not win that election.

Becoming an MP

In the 1702 English general election, William Ashburnham was elected as the MP for Hastings without anyone running against him. This means he won easily! He was re-elected in the same way in 1705 and again in 1708.

His Work in Parliament

While in Parliament, William Ashburnham was involved in a discussion about a law called the "occasional conformity bill." He acted as a "teller" for this bill. A teller helps count the votes when Parliament members decide on new laws. In 1705, he voted against the person supported by the King's government for the role of Speaker of the House. The Speaker is like the leader of the debates in the House of Commons.

Becoming a Baron

On January 21, 1710, William's father passed away. This meant William inherited his father's title and became the 2nd Baron Ashburnham. When he became a Baron, he left his seat in the House of Commons. He then joined the House of Lords, which is where Barons and other noble people serve. For a short time in 1710, he also held a special local job called Custos Rotulorum of Brecknockshire.

Marriage and Passing

William Ashburnham married Catherine Taylor in 1705. Her father was Thomas Taylor from Clapham, Bedfordshire. William and Catherine did not have any children.

Sadly, William Ashburnham passed away on June 16, 1710, when he was only 31 years old. He died from a serious illness called smallpox. He was buried in Ashburnham. His wife, Lady Ashburnham, also died from smallpox less than a month later. She was only 23. After William's death, his younger brother, John, became the next Baron Ashburnham.