John William Fortescue

The Honourable John William Fortescue was born on 14 July 1819 and died on 25 September 1859. He was a member of the British Whig party and held parliamentary and military positions during his lifetime.

Family and Background:

John William Fortescue was the second son of Hugh Fortescue, the 2nd Earl Fortescue. His mother was Lady Susan, the daughter of Dudley Ryder, the 1st Earl of Harrowby. His paternal grandmother was Hester Grenville, the daughter of George Grenville. He had at least two brothers: Hugh Fortescue, the 3rd Earl Fortescue, and the Honorable Dudley Fortescue.

Political Career:

In 1847, Fortescue was elected as one of the two Members of Parliament representing Barnstaple. He served in this capacity until 1852. Aside from his parliamentary role, he held military command positions; from 1853 to 1856, he was a Major and later Lieutenant-Colonel commanding the East Devon Militia.

Personal Life:

John William Fortescue died at the age of 40 in September 1859. He did not marry during his lifetime.

References:

His parliamentary contributions are documented in the Hansard archives covering the years 1803 to 2005. Additional information about his parliamentary service can be found in Leigh Rayment's Historical List of MPs.