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Edward Watson (died 1617) facts for kids

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Edward Watson
WatsonRockinghamArms.svg
Arms of Watson, of Rockingham Castle: Argent, on a chevron engrailed azure between three martlets sable as many crescents or
Member of Parliament
for Stamford
In office
1601–1601
Personal details
Born c. 1549
Died 1 March 1617(1617-00-00) (aged 67–68)
Resting place Rockingham church
Spouse Anne Digby
Children
Parents
  • Edward Watson
  • Dorothy Montagu

Sir Edward Watson (born around 1549 – died 1 March 1617) was an important English landowner and politician. He lived at Rockingham Castle in Northamptonshire. Sir Edward held a powerful local job as the High Sheriff of Northamptonshire from 1591 to 1592. He was also chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for the town of Stamford in 1601. In 1603, he received the special title of 'Sir' when he was knighted by the King.

Who Was Sir Edward Watson?

Sir Edward Watson was born around the year 1549. He was the oldest son of Edward Watson and Dorothy Montagu. His father, Edward Watson, was also from Rockingham Castle. His mother, Dorothy, was the eldest daughter of Sir Edward Montagu, a well-known judge.

His Family Life

In April 1567, Sir Edward Watson married Anne Digby. She was the daughter of Kenelm Digby. Together, they had a large family with two sons and eight daughters. Their children were:

  • Lewis Watson, 1st Baron Rockingham (1584 – 1653)
  • Edward Watson (born 1586)
  • Anne Watson, who married Sir Charles Norwich
  • Emma Watson, who married John Graunte
  • Mary Watson, who married Sir Anthony Maney
  • Catherine Watson, who married Sir Thomas Palmer
  • Elizabeth Watson, who married Sir John Nedham and later Sir Edward Tyrrell
  • Temperance Watson, who married Thomas Dolman
  • Frances Watson, who married Rowland Vaughan
  • Dorothy Watson, who married Sir George Throgmorton

A Career in Politics

Sir Edward Watson played a significant role in his community and in government. As the High Sheriff of Northamptonshire, he was the main law enforcement officer for the county. This was a very important job at the time.

In 1601, he was elected as an MP for Stamford. This meant he represented the people of Stamford in the English Parliament, helping to make laws and decisions for the country.

Royal Connections

Sir Edward's importance grew when he was knighted by King James I on 11 May 1603. This was a great honor given by the King. The King even visited Sir Edward at Rockingham Castle for three days in 1605, showing how respected Sir Edward was.

Later Life and Legacy

In 1613, Sir Edward Watson decided to pass on control of his lands and properties to his eldest son, Sir Lewis. Sir Edward died on 1 March 1617. He was buried a few days later, on 4 March, at Rockingham church.

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