June 14th Sidney Godolphin (Birth)
     

Breage – born Sidney Godolphin  (1645 – 1712), a member of the famous Godolphin family of Godolphin Manor represented Helston in the Commons. He became a courtier and advanced rapidly, becoming a Groom of the Bedchamber (1672) and Master of the Robes (1678). Neither position was of political significance but they were of immense Royal importance giving Godolphin direct access to King Charles II.

After a nine-year betrothment, Godolphin married Margaret Blagge.  They had one child, Francis (September 3rd, 1678) but Margaret died six days later.  Grief-stricken, Godolphin took no part in her funeral and returned to his Godolphin  estate, remaining there for a year.

In 1684, King Charles I appointed him Secretary of State and he was raised to the peerage as Baron Godolphin of Rialton.  On James II’s accession to the throne, Godolphin was appointed Chamberlain to the Queen and became one of James’ most trusted ministers and even corresponded with James after he was deposed.  However, ever pragmatic, he quickly switched sides and on May 6th, 1702,  Queen Anne appointed Godolphin to the position of Lord High Treasurer, effectively the head of the home government, making him one of the most significant and powerful men in the country.

 

 

 

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