Arthur Porter (MP) facts for kids
Arthur Porter (born around 1505 – died May 31, 1559) was an important English official and politician. He served as a Member of Parliament (MP), which means he was a representative for people in the government. He also received a special grant of land that used to belong to Llanthony Secunda Priory, a type of religious house.
Arthur Porter was the only son of Roger Porter from Newent and Alvington, both places in Gloucestershire. He received his education at Lincoln's Inn, which was a famous place in London where people studied law.
Early Career and Public Service
Arthur Porter started his career as a government official. In 1526, he became an "escheator" for Gloucestershire and the Welsh Marches. An escheator was an officer who handled land that went back to the king when someone died without an heir or committed a serious crime.
He also served as a Justice of the Peace (J.P.) for Gloucestershire from 1537 to 1547. A Justice of the Peace was a local official who helped keep law and order. In 1548, he was appointed Sheriff of Gloucestershire. The Sheriff was a very important official responsible for enforcing laws and managing the county.
Managing Priory Lands
Arthur Porter played a role in managing the lands of Llantony Priory. He acted as a "Receiver" for these lands in 1539 and again in 1542. This meant he was in charge of collecting money and managing the property. Because of his work, he was given a grant of these priory lands in 1540. This was a significant award, as it gave him ownership of valuable property. In 1544, he also bought Pitchcombe manor, a large estate near Painswick.
Political Life
Arthur Porter became a Member of Parliament (MP) in November 1554. He first represented Gloucestershire as a "knight of the shire." This title was given to MPs who represented a county.
After that, he continued his political career:
- In 1555, he served as an MP for the city of Gloucester.
- In 1559, he became an MP for Aylesbury.
He was still serving as an MP when he passed away on May 31, 1559.
Family Life
Arthur Porter was married two times. His first wife was Alice Arnold, who was the daughter of John Arnold from Churcham, Gloucestershire. They had a large family together, with at least 12 children, including a son named Sir Thomas.
His second wife was Isabel Denys. She was the daughter of Sir William Denys of Dyrham, Gloucestershire. Isabel was also the widow of Sir John Berkeley, who had passed away around 1548.
