Sir Henry Edwards M.P.

This is probably Sir Henry Edwards (1820-1897), the Member of Parliament (Liberal) for Weymouth and Melcombe Regis from 1867 to 1885, when Weymouth and Melcombe Regis ceased to be a parliamentary borough.

He died on 4 February 1897, three days before his 77th birthday, at his residence, 53 Berkeley Square in London.

'Intimation was received in Weymouth on Thursday afternoon in last week that Sir Henry Edwards, who must be regarded as the greatest benefactor Weymouth ever had, had passed away at his residence, 53, Berkeley-square, London, and as the news gained currency in the town it was received with every manifestation of sorrowful regret. The condition of the deceased's health of late had given rise to the gravest apprehensions, and to a large circle of friends the news of the demise was not unexpected, though deeply deplored. [...] Sir Henry's acts of goodness to the town have been manifold, and the investments he has made on behalf of the poor and needy will perpetuate his memory, it is hoped, for many and many a long century. [...] During the 20 years that Sir Henry Edwards was one of the representatives of the borough in Parliament [...] he was looked up to by all with the sincerest admiration and respect, and each of his many public gifts made since has only tended to increase the esteem felt for him. [...] The deceased gentleman's death occurred three days prior to the 77th anniversary of his birthday, the primary cause of death being pulmonary affection. Sir Henry was the eldest son of the late Mr John Edwards, of Somerton, Somerset. He was born in London. He was long engaged in merchandise in the city, and was a magistrate in Middlesex. He unsuccessfully contested Weymouth in 1865, but was returned in 1867, and then sat for the borough for the succeeding 20 years' (Western Gazette, 12 February 1897).

Photographed in 1860 by Camille Silvy of London.