Edward Phelips (Royalist) facts for kids
Edward Phelips (born around 1613, died 1680) was an important English landowner and politician. He was a member of the House of Commons, which is like a part of today's parliament, at different times between 1640 and 1679. He also fought for the King's side, known as the Royalists, during the English Civil War.
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Edward Phelips's Early Life and Education
Edward Phelips was the son of Sir Robert Phelips. His mother was Bridget Gorges. Edward started studying at Wadham College, Oxford in 1629 when he was 16 years old.
Edward Phelips and the English Civil War
Serving in Parliament Before the War
In 1640, Edward Phelips was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for a place called Ilchester. This was for a short meeting of Parliament. He was chosen again for Ilchester for the longer Parliament that followed.
Fighting for the King
When the English Civil War began, Edward Phelips supported King Charles I. He became a high-ranking officer, a colonel, in the King's army in 1643. He was also in charge of Ilchester from 1643 to 1645. Because he fought for the King, he was not allowed to be an MP anymore starting in 1644.
After the war, in 1647, he had to pay a large fine because he had supported the King. Later, in 1655, he was thought to be involved in a small rebellion called the Penruddock uprising. He was put on trial but was found innocent.
Helping King Charles II Escape
Edward Phelips played a small part in helping King Charles II escape England. This happened after the King lost the Battle of Worcester. Edward's brother, Robert, was trying to find a ship for the King to leave from Southampton. Edward traveled to Trent Manor to tell the King what his brother was doing. He might have even been with Robert during some of his efforts to help the King escape.
Edward Phelips After the King Returned
New Roles and Responsibilities
When King Charles II returned to the throne in 1660 (an event called the Restoration), Edward Phelips was considered for a special honor. He was also given important jobs. He became a Deputy Lieutenant for Somerset in July 1660. This role involved helping to keep order and organize local forces. He also helped manage local taxes and public works.
Return to Parliament
In 1661, Edward Phelips was elected as an MP again, this time for Somerset. This Parliament was known as the Cavalier Parliament. In the same year, he became a high steward for Ilchester. He also helped oversee local government in Somerset.
Edward Phelips tried to be elected again in 1679 but was not successful. He passed away on February 5, 1680, at the age of 67. He was buried in Montacute.
Edward Phelips's Family Life
Edward Phelips married Anne Pye in 1632. She was the daughter of Sir Robert Pye. Edward and Anne had four sons and two daughters. One of their sons, also named Edward, later became an MP for Ilchester, just like his father. Edward's brother, Robert, was also an MP.
