Nathaniel Polhill
Nathaniel Polhill | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1723-01-07 Burwash, Sussex, England |
| Died | 1782-08-29 |
| Occupation(s) | Businessman, Parliamentarian |
| Years active | 1774–1782 (as MP) |
| Known for | Member of Parliament for Southwark, Radical politician, partner in banking and tobacco businesses |
Nathaniel Polhill (1723–1782) was a British businessman and parliamentarian who represented a seat in the House of Commons from 1774 until his death in 1782.
Early & Personal Life
Polhill was born on 7 January 1723 as the eldest child of William Polhill of Burwash, Sussex, and Hannah Lade from Downham, Norfolk. He wed Elizabeth Coppard of Hastings on 5 March 1750. Together, they had six offspring, notably Nathaniel Polhill (1756–1782), who married Ursula Maitland, daughter of MP Ebenezer Maitland; and John Polhill (1757–1828), whose lineage included Frederick Polhill (1798–1848).
In 1781, he acquired Howbury Hall in Renhold, Bedfordshire for £17,500. The property was inherited by his heirs and has remained within the family line. Nathaniel Polhill senior passed away on 29 August 1782, leaving behind properties spanning five counties.
Career
Initially engaged in the tobacco business based in Southwark, Polhill later became a partner in a banking firm located in the City starting in 1777. During the 1774 election, he won the parliamentary seat for Southwark, advocating for reforms in both economic policy and parliamentary governance. He secured re-election during the 1780 election after a tightly contested campaign.
Recognized as a Radical, Polhill held a significant role within the Protestant Association. His sole documented speech in Parliament involved supporting Lord George Gordon's motion connected to the Association's petition.