Senhouse, Humphrey (1731-1814)

Scholar and M.P.

Educated at Christ’s College, Cambridge (B.A. 1753). Fellow of Pembroke College. Deafness (caused by smallpox) prevented him from entering the ministry, and in 1765 he consulted Franklin about whether the application of electricity might alleviate his hearing loss. Franklin discouraged the experiment. Senhouse managed his family’s estates and pursued interests in local archaeology and coal-mining. Member of Parliament for Cockermouth (1786-90) and Cumberland (1790-96).

Son of Humphrey and Mary (Fleming) Senhouse of Netherall, Cumberland. Married Catherine Wood (1770); one son.