Edward Southwell succeeded his father, Sir Robert Southwell, as Secretary of State, in 1702, occupying the position until his death. He also served two terms of office as Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant (1703-7 and 1710-13). He was a Member of Parliament for Kinsale, County Cork, and acquired, by marriage to Elizabeth Cromwell, daughter of the Earl of Ardglass, Downpatrick, the Manor of Down. He was founder of the Southwell Charities in Downpatrick.

Born:	4 September 1671
Died:	4 December 1730