Lord Bexley
From KCpedia
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Beginnings
Lord Bexley, born Nicholas Vansittart in London, in 1776 had a long tradition of benevolence with Kenyon College, beginning with Bishop Chase and his campaign for the funds needed to start the school. A graduate of Christ Church, Oxford, he was later admitted to the bar in 1791. As an English politician, he wrote public pamphlets and became a member of parliament in 1796. Many of these pamphlets were in the defense of William Pitt’s administration. He remained an active politician throughout his life, and was made Baron Bexley in 1823. Throughout his political career, Bexley was an active evangelical member of the Church.
Political Career
Lord Bexley began his political career by writing pamphlets in defense of William Pitt's administration, which was responsible for bringing the Seven Year's War to an end. Bexley also served as Secretary of Treasury in the early 19th century and held this joint position until 1804. He also served as Chief Secretary for Ireland in 1805. He had a reputation as a financier, and this reputation led him into the position of Chancellor of the Exchequer, the British Cabinet minister responsible for finance, which he led from 1812-1822. When he first began serving in this position, the country was in financial crisis. He created a complicated response to the crisis, and over time his financial programs became unpopular and he resigned in 1822. After his resignation, he was offered the position of Chancellor of Duchy of Lancaster. Upon acceptance, he was created Baron Bexley.
Association with Kenyon College
Bishop Chase received funds from Lord Bexley during his financial campaign, and Bexley was also benevolent when Kenyon College suffered from a financial crisis during the presidency of Charles Pettit McIlvaine. Bishop McIlvaine solicited donations in England for a new building on the campus and books for the library. He contacted Lord Bexley during his campaign, and was met with kindness. Because of Lord Bexley's kindness, Bexley Hall was named in his honor.
