Home Secretary Collection (#3)

John Anderson, 1st Viscount Waverley (1882-1958), Scottish politician and administrator
John Anderson, 1st Viscount Waverley, Scottish Conservative politician and administrator. After a civil service career which culminated with the post of Governor of Bengal from 1932-1938

The Not-At-All-At-Home Secretary, 1887. Artist: Edward Linley Sambourne
The Not-At-All-At-Home Secretary, 1887. The Home Secretary on the left is attempting to involve himself in a meeting being held in Trafalgar Square

The Rod Still in Pickle, 1883. Artist: Joseph Swain
The Rod Still in Pickle, 1883. The Liberal Prime Minister, Gladstone, in the guise of a schoolmaster, reviews the progress of his pupils at the end of term

Police Intelligence, 1883. Artist: Joseph Swain
Police Intelligence, 1883. The Liberal Home Secretary, Sir William Harcourt, accepts Mr Punchs salute. In the background, a line of brave British policemen stand to attention

Dr. Birch and His Young Friends, 1880. Artist: Joseph Swain
Dr. Birch and His Young Friends, 1880. Sir William Harcourt, the Liberal Home Secretary, prepares a birch labelled Juvenile Offenders Act

Hares Skins! Rabbists Skins!, 1880. Artist: Joseph Swain
Hares Skins! Rabbists Skins!, 1880. Sir William Harcourt, the Liberal Home Secretary, is depicted trying to sell his hare and rabbit skins, whilst the former Prime Minister

The Good Little Vitler, 1874. Artist: Joseph Swain
The Good Little Vitler, 1874. The little victualler is rewarded by the new Conservative Home Secretary, RA Cross. The previous Home Secretary, HA Bruce

General election, (1874?). Artist: Joseph Swain
General election, (1874?). A shrouded figure holds up the ballot box whilst, in the mists and gloom at the figures feet, the Liberal Prime Minister, Gladstone

The Garotters Friend, 1862. Artist: John Tenniel
The Garotters Friend, 1862. Let Go, Bill, Can t Yer - Its Our Kind Non-Interfering Friend, Sir George Grey! London at this time was subjected to a rash of garrotting attacks

William Fitz-Maurice Petty, First Marquis of Lansdowne, engraved by H. Robinson
XJF311655 William Fitz-Maurice Petty, First Marquis of Lansdowne, engraved by H. Robinson (engraving) by Reynolds, Joshua (1723-92) (after); Private Collection; (add.info.: William Petty FitzMaurice)

Patent for Knighthood: Henry Dundas and Sir James Stirling, 1792 (engraving)
XJF2906491 Patent for Knighthood: Henry Dundas and Sir James Stirling, 1792 (engraving) by Kay, John (1742-1826); Private Collection; (add.info)

Thomas Townshend, 1st Viscount Sydney (engraving)
XJF380211 Thomas Townshend, 1st Viscount Sydney (engraving) by English School, (18th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Thomas Townshend)

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The Home Secretary, a position of great significance in the British government, has witnessed a multitude of historical events and transformations throughout the centuries. From smoking clubs to 18th-century artwork, their role has evolved alongside society. In the early 19th century, Sir Robert Peel Bart. , an influential figure in British politics, served as Home Secretary. His portrait from around 1820 captures his dignified presence and hints at the challenges he faced during his tenure. Fast forward to 1931 when Ramsay MacDonald's cabinet took office. The photograph from that time showcases the diverse group of individuals who formed this government and highlights the importance of collaboration within political leadership. However, not all moments were peaceful. The Sidney Street siege in Whitechapel, London in 1911 serves as a reminder that maintaining law and order is one of the key responsibilities entrusted to the Home Secretary. A photograph taken years later immortalizes this event for future generations to reflect upon. Engravings depicting scenes from inside Parliament also shed light on how Home Secretaries have navigated debates and legislation over time. Sketches capturing question time or discussions on imprisoned dynamiters demonstrate their involvement in shaping policies related to security and justice. Moreover, these engravings reveal significant figures such as Henry Petty-Fitzmaurice, known for serving both as Home Secretary and Chancellor of Exchequer during his career. His contributions left an indelible mark on British politics. The House of Commons was also witness to passionate debates surrounding bills proposed by prominent politicians like Mr Parnell. These discussions showcased how different perspectives clashed under the watchful eye of successive Home Secretaries striving for effective governance. Photographs offer glimpses into pivotal moments too; Lord Salisbury's new cabinet captured through black-and-white photography reflects changing times while emphasizing continuity within governmental structures. Notable personalities associated with this esteemed position include Robert Lowe Viscount Sherbrooke - a liberal statesman who left an imprint on British politics.