Cotton Gargrave facts for kids

Wragby Church, Nostell Priory, a place connected to Sir Cotton Gargrave and his father

Sir Cotton Gargrave (born 1540, died 1588) was an important English landowner and politician. He served in the House of Commons, which is like a part of today's Parliament, in 1571 and 1572.

Sir Cotton Gargrave: A Life in English Politics

Early Life and Family Roots

Sir Cotton Gargrave was the son of Sir Thomas Gargrave, who held a significant position called High Sheriff of Yorkshire. The High Sheriff was a royal official responsible for keeping law and order in a county. Cotton Gargrave lived at Nostell Priory and also in Kingsley, both in Yorkshire, England.

Serving the Country: Political Career

In 1569, there was a big event called the Rising of the North, which was a rebellion in the northern parts of England. During this time, Sir Cotton Gargrave was in charge of 200 men from the West Riding of Yorkshire, helping to keep the peace.

He was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for a place called Boroughbridge in 1571 and again in 1572. Being an MP meant he helped make laws and decisions for the country.

Later, in 1583, he was appointed High Sheriff of Yorkshire, just like his father. This was a very respected role. In 1585, he was given the title of 'Sir', meaning he was knighted. From 1584 to 1588, he also held the position of Custos Rotulorum of the West Riding of Yorkshire. This role meant he was the chief keeper of the county's records and the head of the local justice system.

Towards the end of his life, Sir Cotton Gargrave faced financial difficulties. He had to use many of the properties he inherited from his wealthy father as security for loans.

Family Connections

Sir Cotton Gargrave was married twice. His first wife was Bridget Fairfax. She was the daughter of Sir William Fairfax, who also served as High Sheriff of Yorkshire.

His second wife was Agnes (or Anne) Waterton. She was the daughter of Sir Thomas Waterton from Walton and Sandal, Yorkshire.

Sir Cotton Gargrave was a friend of Thomas Randolph, who was Queen Elizabeth I's ambassador to Scotland. In May 1586, Sir Cotton invited his friend Thomas Randolph to visit him at Nostell.

The Gargrave family was known for having many interesting family stories over the years. Sir Cotton's daughter, Elizabeth, married William Fenwick. Another daughter, Anne, married Peter Venables, who was also an MP, and later married Sir Edward Bushell. His daughter Mary was a Maid of Honour to Anne of Denmark, who later became Queen of Scotland and England.