Christopher Hatton, 1st Baron Hatton facts for kids

Christopher Hatton was an important English politician who lived from 1605 to 1670. He was a distant relative of another famous politician named Sir Christopher Hatton. During the time of King Charles I, Christopher Hatton was a strong supporter of the King. People who supported the King during this period were called Royalists or Cavaliers. He was also a member of the Order of the Bath, a Privy Councillor, and a Fellow of the Royal Society.

Christopher Hatton: A Life of Service

Early Life and Learning

Christopher Hatton was born on June 28, 1605. His father was also named Sir Christopher Hatton. He grew up in Barking, Essex. Christopher went to Jesus College, Cambridge for his education. After college, he studied law at Gray's Inn. He was very interested in old things and history. He helped create a special book called the Book of Seals. This book collected many old documents from the Middle Ages.

Starting in Politics

In 1625, Christopher Hatton became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Peterborough. Even though he was a bit too young to officially sit, he was elected. The next year, in 1626, he was elected MP for Clitheroe. When he turned 21 in 1626, he was made a Knight of the Bath. This was a special honor, just like his father had received.

In 1640, he was elected to the Long Parliament. He chose to represent Higham Ferrers. He was one of the few politicians supported by Queen Henrietta Maria to win an election.

Supporting the King in War

During the English Civil War, Christopher Hatton was a loyal supporter of King Charles I. He was known as a Cavalier. In 1643, the King gave him the title of Baron Hatton of Kirby. He also worked as the King's Comptroller of the Household. This meant he managed the King's royal household. He even represented the King in important talks at Uxbridge in 1645.

Life After the War

After the Civil War, Christopher Hatton lived in France for several years. When the King was restored to power in England, Hatton returned. He was made a Privy Councillor. This was a group of important advisors to the King. He also became the governor of Guernsey, an island in the English Channel.

In 1663, he became one of the first members of the Royal Society. This was a new group for scientists and thinkers. Christopher Hatton passed away on July 4, 1670. He was buried in Westminster Abbey, a very famous church in London.

Family and Legacy

Christopher Hatton married Elizabeth Montagu in 1630. She was the daughter of Sir Charles Montagu. Sadly, Elizabeth died in 1672 when lightning struck a powder magazine at Castle Cornet in Guernsey.

Christopher and Elizabeth had two sons. One of them, also named Christopher Hatton, 1st Viscount Hatton, later became a Viscount. They also had three daughters.