Thomas Twisden Hodges: The Political Life of a Liberal MP
Thomas Twisden Hodges was a figure of the 19th-century British political landscape, serving as a member of the Liberal Party. His career in the House of Commons spanned two distinct periods between 1835 and 1852, reflecting the shifting political tides of the Victorian era.
Early Life and Family Heritage
Born on August 29, 1809, Hodges was born into a family with established political connections. He was the son of Thomas Law Hodges of Hemsted Park, who served as the Member of Parliament (MP) for West Kent, and Rebecca Twisden, the daughter of Sir Roger Twisden.
Parliamentary Career and Political Struggles
Hodges first entered national politics during the general election of 1835, where he was elected as the MP for the borough of Rochester. However, his tenure was not continuous; he chose not to stand for re-election in 1837.
His subsequent attempts to return to Parliament met with varying degrees of success. In 1842, he contested a by-election for the borough of Canterbury, but the effort was unsuccessful, as he secured only 17 votes out of a total of 1,417. He eventually returned to the House of Commons after being elected for Rochester again during the 1847 general election, holding the seat until he stepped down in 1852.
Military Service and Later Years
Beyond his legislative duties, Hodges held a military rank as a major in the West Kent Militia, a local defense force composed of part-time soldiers.
The later years of his life were marked by financial instability. In 1856, while residing at St Hilda's, Hodges was officially declared insolvent, meaning he was unable to pay his debts.
Personal Life and Legacy
Hodges married twice during his life. His first wife was Mary Ann Floretta Chandless. In 1854, he married Rosa, Lady Nott, who was the daughter of Major P. L. Dore of the 3rd Foot and the widow of General Sir William Nott. Following the death of Thomas Twisden Hodges, Rosa resumed the title of Lady Nott and lived until August 1901.
Thomas Twisden Hodges passed away on March 12, 1865, and was laid to rest in Brookwood Cemetery.
Key Facts
- Political Affiliation: Liberal Party.
- Parliamentary Seats: Represented the borough of Rochester (1835–1837 and 1847–1852).
- Military Rank: Major in the West Kent Militia.
- Family: Son of Thomas Law Hodges (MP for West Kent) and Rebecca Twisden.
- Financial Status: Declared insolvent in 1856.
- Final Resting Place: Brookwood Cemetery.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Lifespan | August 29, 1809 – March 12, 1865 |
| Political Party | Liberal Party |
| Constituencies | Rochester (Elected), Canterbury (Unsuccessful) |
| Military Role | Major, West Kent Militia |
| Spouses | Mary Ann Floretta Chandless; Rosa, Lady Nott |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which constituencies did Thomas Twisden Hodges represent?
Thomas Twisden Hodges represented the borough of Rochester during two separate terms in the House of Commons.
Was he successful in all his election bids?
No. While he won elections in Rochester, he was unsuccessful in an 1842 by-election for Canterbury, where he received only 17 votes.
What was his military involvement?
He served as a major in the West Kent Militia.
Did he face any financial difficulties?
Yes, Hodges was declared insolvent in 1856 while living at St Hilda's.
Who was his second wife?
His second wife was Rosa, Lady Nott, the widow of General Sir William Nott and daughter of Major P. L. Dore.