Introduction
Edward Southwell, 20th Baron de Clifford (6 June 1738 – 1 November 1777) was a British politician.
He was the son of Edward Southwell (1705–1755) by his wife Katherine, daughter of Edward Watson, Viscount Sondes. He was educated at Westminster School and Pembroke College, Cambridge.
He was elected to the British House of Commons as Member of Parliament for Bridgwater on 28 March 1761, sitting until 1763. On 23 November 1763 he was returned for Gloucestershire, sitting until 1776. He also represented Kinsale in the Irish House of Commons from May 1761 to 1768.
On 17 April 1776 the abeyance of the Barony of Clifford was terminated in his favour, and he entered the British House of Lords as 20th Baron de Clifford. He died one year later.
On 29 August 1765 Edward Southwell married Sophia, the daughter of Samuel Campbell of Mount Campbell. After her husband's death Lady de Clifford was appointed Governess to Princess Charlotte.
Personal papers
Documents relating to Edward Southwell, including family papers, deeds, financial records and estate records, are held by Bristol Archives (Ref. 42725 and 45317) (online catalogue page 1 online catalogue page 2)