Family and Education

b. 16 Oct. 1765, 1st (illegit.) s. of John Calcraft by Mrs. Elizabeth Bride, an actress. educ. Harrow 1774; Eton 1778-9. m. to Newcastle, Elizabeth, da. and coh. of Sir Thomas Pym Hales, 4th Bt., 2s. 3da. suc. fa. 23 Aug. 1772.

Offices Held

Biography

John Calcraft, chief heir to his father’s estate, was returned for his pocket borough of Wareham three months before he came of age, Charles Lefebure, his step-father, vacating the seat. During his minority the electoral interest at Wareham was managed by his uncle Anthony Lucas, commissioner of Excise 1767-89, who in 1784 had returned two Members favourable to the Administration. But Calcraft joined the Opposition, voting with them on the Regency. There is no record of his having spoken in the House 1786-90. He did not stand in 1790; adhered to the Whigs 1800-28; and reverted to them over the reform bill in March 1831. He committed suicide 11 Sept. 1831.

Ref Volumes: 1754-1790

Author: Sir Lewis Namier

Notes