Anthony Kingston facts for kids

Sir Anthony Kingston (born around 1508 – died 14 April 1556) was an important English government official. He held many different jobs under several Tudor kings and queens.

Who Was Sir Anthony Kingston?

His Family Background

Anthony Kingston was the son of Sir William Kingston. His father was from Blackfriars, London. Anthony had a sister named Bridget. She married Sir George Baynham.

Sir William Kingston married three times. Anthony's mother was one of his father's first two wives. His father's third wife, Mary Scrope, was a stepmother to Anthony. She brought four step-brothers and a step-sister into the family.

Starting His Career

Anthony Kingston began his public service early. He was appointed High Sheriff of Gloucestershire for 1533–34. This was an important local role.

Serving the King and Country

Helping King Henry VIII

In 1536–37, Kingston led a thousand men from Gloucestershire. They helped the Duke of Norfolk stop a large protest called the Pilgrimage of Grace. This protest was against King Henry VIII's changes to the church. Kingston fought in the defeat of the rebels at Louth.

Because of his loyalty and service, King Henry VIII made him a knight on 18 October 1537. Sir Anthony also held jobs at the royal court. He received land that used to belong to monasteries. These monasteries were closed down by the king.

Moving to Devon

After 1535, Kingston married Mary Gainsford. She was the widow of Sir William Courtenay. Kingston then moved from Gloucestershire to Chudleigh, Devon. This town, along with Honiton, belonged to his wife.

Sir Anthony Kingston was also a member of the House of Commons. He represented Gloucestershire in several parliaments. He served in 1539, 1545, 1547, and 1555.

Role in the Prayer Book Rebellion

In 1549, King Edward VI appointed Kingston as Provost Marshal. This meant he was in charge of keeping order. He helped put down the Prayer Book Rebellion. This was a revolt in the West Country. It happened because people were unhappy with new religious changes.

After the rebellion, Sir Anthony Kingston was responsible for dealing with the rebels. He was known for being very strict. A historian named Richard Carew later wrote that Kingston "hath left his name more memorable than commendable" in Cornwall.

Later Years and Challenges

Kingston was also part of Edward VI's council for Wales. When Lady Jane Grey became queen after Edward VI, she ordered Kingston to gather forces. However, her short reign ended before he could act.

Later, during the reign of Mary I, Kingston had some disagreements. He was a supporter of the Protestant religion. In 1555, he was a Knight marshal in parliament. He was sent to the Tower of London on 10 December 1555. This was because he was suspected of planning to put Elizabeth on the throne. He was released after he apologized.

In 1556, Kingston was involved in another plan. This plot aimed to get money from the government. The money would help a conspiracy to make Elizabeth queen. Several people involved were executed. Sir Anthony Kingston died on 14 April 1556 in Cirencester. He was on his way to London for trial.

Marriages and Children

Sir Anthony Kingston married twice. His first wife was Dorothy Harpur. His second wife was Mary Gainsford. He did not have any children with either of his wives.

However, he did have two sons from another relationship. Their names were Anthony and Edmund. He made sure they received some of his property in 1547.