Edward Norreys facts for kids
Sir Edward Norreys (who also spelled his name Norris) was an important English soldier and politician in the late 1500s. He was known for being the Governor of a city called Ostend and also served as a Member of Parliament in England.
A Life of Service
Edward Norreys was the third son of Henry Norris, 1st Baron Norreys and his wife, Lady Margery Williams. His family lived in a place called Wytham in Berkshire (which is now part of Oxfordshire).
Edward was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for Abingdon in 1584 and again in 1588. A Member of Parliament is someone who helps make laws and decisions for the country.
A Brave Soldier
Just like his older and more famous brother, Sir John Norreys, Edward became a very skilled soldier. He fought in many battles in the Netherlands.
In 1586, he was given a special honor: he was knighted by the Earl of Leicester. Being knighted meant he was recognized for his bravery and service.
Governor of Ostend
In 1590, Sir Edward was given a very important job. He was made the Governor of Ostend, a city that needed strong defense. Being a governor meant he was in charge of the city's military and protection.
The next year, in February, he led a daring attack. He raided a Spanish fort at Blankenberge and completely destroyed it. He returned to Ostend with very few losses, showing his skill as a military leader.
Back in England
When he was not fighting, Sir Edward lived on a small estate in Englefield in Berkshire, England. A man named Dudley Carleton worked as his secretary.
Queen Elizabeth I eventually asked Sir Edward to return home from Ostend. This was because all of his brothers had sadly died while serving as soldiers. The Queen was a friend of his mother, Margery, and wanted her to have at least one son alive and safe.
Sadly, his mother, Margery, died soon after in 1599. The Queen was very kind and even forgave a debt of £2,000 that the family owed.
His Later Years
In 1600, Sir Edward married his cousin, Elizabeth Norreys. However, they did not have any children.
Sir Edward Norreys died in October 1603. His life was full of service to England as both a soldier and a politician.
