Charles Townshend Murdoch
Charles Townshend Murdoch | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date |
| Died | July 8, 1898 (aged 61) |
| Occupation(s) | Financier, politician |
| Known for | Member of Parliament for Reading |
Charles Townshend Murdoch (27 May 1837 – 8 July 1898) was a financier and Conservative legislator who represented his constituency in the House of Commons initially from 1885 to 1892, and subsequently from 1895 until his passing in 1898.
The son of James Gordon Murdoch from Ashfold, Sussex, Murdoch received his education at Eton College. His military career included service as a lieutenant in the Rifle Brigade, advancing to captain within the South Middlesex Volunteers, and fulfilling the role of adjutant for the Hertfordshire Yeoman Cavalry. In business, he was a partner at Ransom, Bouverie & Co and held board positions at Imperial Fire Insurance Co and London Life Association. Additionally, he chaired the Llanelly Railway and served as a J.P. for Berkshire, with his residence located in Wokingham.
During the 1885 general election, Murdoch secured election as the Member of Parliament for Reading, a seat he occupied until his defeat in 1892. He reclaimed this position in 1895 and continued to serve until his death at age 61. Among his electoral challengers were individuals from the Palmer family, noted founders of the Huntley & Palmers biscuit enterprise.
In 1862, Murdoch wed Sophia Speke, daughter of W Speke from Ilminster. Their family included multiple daughters and one son, Charles Edward Gambier Murdoch (1865–1894), who passed away unmarried.