Edmund Dunch (Elizabethan) facts for kids
Sir Edmund Dunch (born 1551, died 1623) was an important person in England during his time. He served as a Member of Parliament (MP), which meant he helped make laws for the country. He was also a High Sheriff, a special role where he was the main law enforcement officer in his county.
Early Life and Education
Edmund Dunch was born in 1551. His father was William Dunch (1508–1597). The family lived in a place called Little Wittenham, which was in Berkshire back then. Today, this area is part of Oxfordshire.
When he was older, Edmund went to college at Magdalen College, Oxford. This was a famous university where many important people studied. His education helped him prepare for a life of public service.
A Career in Parliament
Edmund Dunch became a Member of Parliament (MP) several times. An MP is like a representative for a certain area, speaking for the people who live there.
- In 1571, he was elected as an MP for Wallingford. This town was also in Berkshire, now part of Oxfordshire.
- Later, from 1584 to 1585, he served as an MP for Wootton Bassett.
Being an MP meant he traveled to London to attend Parliament. There, he would discuss new laws and important issues facing England.
Role as High Sheriff
Besides being an MP, Edmund Dunch also served as the High Sheriff of Berkshire. He held this important job twice:
- In 1587
- In 1603
The High Sheriff was a very powerful position in the county. They were responsible for keeping the peace, making sure laws were followed, and managing elections. It was a big responsibility to help keep order and justice in the community.
Family Life
Edmund Dunch got married to Anne Fettiplace in 1576. They had children together. Two of his sons followed in his footsteps and also became Members of Parliament for Wallingford:
- Sir William Dunch (1578–1611)
- Samuel Dunch
This shows that serving in Parliament was a family tradition for the Dunch family.
