Compton, Spencer, Earl of Wilmington, 1673?-1743

British statesman.

From the description of Spencer Compton, Earl of Wilmington, papers, 1675-1775. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 79456033

Biography

Spencer Compton, earl of Wilmington (1673?-1743) worked from 1715-1727 as the Prince of Wales' Treasurer. In 1713 Compton joined Parliament as a member from East Grinstead. In 1715 he was unanimously voted Speaker and remained in that position until 1727. In 1716 he joined the Privy council, was Paymaster General from 1722-1730, and was titled Knight of the Bath in 1725. When the Prince of Wales took the throne as George II, Compton was encouraged to become the Prime Minister. However, he declined and Walpole took the position. On January 11, 1728, as a concession, George II titled Compton the Baron Wilmington. He was further made Lord Privy Seal, Lord President of the Council, Knight of the Garter, and the First Lord of the Treasury. In 1742 he claimed the position of Prime Minister, but held the title only in name. In 1742, he was again named Speaker of the House. Compton died on July 1743.

From the guide to the Spencer Compton, Earl of Wilmington Papers, Bulk, 1717-1727, 1713-1732, (William Andrews Clark Memorial Library)