Family and Education

b. aft. 1749, s. of Edward Knubley of Finglandrigg, Bowness-on-Solway by w. Ann née Stoddart of Wigton. m. (1) bef. 1784, Margaret Carr, 1s. 1da.; (2) bef. 1791, Sarah Borradaile, 3s. 1da.

Offices Held

Sheriff, Cumb. 1785-6; collector of customs, Whitehaven 1808-d.

Capt. Westmld. militia 1780, lt.-col. 1803; maj. Whitehaven artillery 1809.

Biography

Knubley, one of Lonsdale’s ‘dogs’, as James Boswell was wont to refer to the hard pressed adherents of the 1st Earl of Lonsdale, was thrice unsuccessful in establishing Lonsdale’s interest at Carlisle. After victory at the poll in 1790 he was unseated on petition, and in 1796 was an unsuccessful petitioner after defeat at the poll. Boswell, who met Knubley during the general election of 1790, reveals the nature of the relationship which existed between Knubley and Lonsdale: ‘He came to me; said "L. had a most tyrannical temper and not a spark of gratitude." Yet he was going to Lancaster to him upon a message.' He was given no further opportunity to enter the House but continued active in support of the Lowthers in Cumberland and was ultimately rewarded with a place in the customs. He died 22 Apr. 1815.

Boswell's Private Pprs. xviii. 54.

Ref Volumes: 1790-1820

Author: J. M. Collinge

Notes