Daniel Fleming (antiquary) facts for kids
Sir Daniel Fleming (1633–1701) was an important English gentleman who lived a long time ago. He was an antiquarian, which means he studied old things and history. He was also a politician, meaning he helped make decisions for the country.
Contents
Life of Sir Daniel Fleming
Early Life and Education
Daniel Fleming was born on July 25, 1633. His father was William Fleming, who owned large estates in places like Coniston and Rydal. Daniel went to The Queen's College, Oxford university in 1650. He also studied law at a famous place called Gray's Inn.
Taking Over the Family Estates
When his father passed away in 1653, Daniel inherited a lot of land near Rydal. He had to pay large amounts of money to the government at the time. This was a challenging period in English history.
Working for the King
After the king returned to power in 1660, an event known as the Restoration, Daniel Fleming was given an important job. He became the sheriff of Cumberland. This meant he was in charge of law and order in that area.
He often wrote letters to a powerful government official named Joseph Williamson. These letters are now kept in a special archive. They give us a good idea of what life was like in Cumberland and Westmorland in the late 1600s.
His Beliefs and Work
Sir Daniel was a strong supporter of the Church of England. He did not agree with other religious groups, like the Protestant dissenters or Roman Catholics. For example, he was worried when George Fox, a leader of the Quakers, was released from prison. He thought it would make it harder for local officials to deal with Quakers.
Becoming a Knight and Politician
On May 15, 1681, Daniel Fleming was made a knight by the king at Windsor. This meant he was now called "Sir Daniel."
From 1685 to 1687, he served as a Member of Parliament for Cockermouth. He spoke out against a new rule called the Declaration of Indulgence. This rule would have given more freedom to some religious groups.
His Love for History
In his free time, Sir Daniel loved to study history, especially about his home county. He wrote down many of his findings in special books. Later, these notes were published as "Description of the County of Westmoreland."
He also helped another historian, William Camden, with his famous book about Britain, called Britannia. Sir Daniel died in 1701.
Family Life
Marriage and Children
In 1655, Daniel Fleming married Barbara Fletcher. Her father, Sir Henry Fletcher, had died fighting for the king in a battle in 1645.
Sir Daniel and Barbara had several children. Their oldest son, William, later became a baronet. This is a special title of honor. William died in 1736. His brother, Sir George Fleming, 2nd Baronet, then took over the title. George also became a very important church leader, the bishop of Carlisle.
