Edward Wray facts for kids

Edward Wray (born 1589 – died 21 March 1658) was an English nobleman and politician. He was a member of the King's court and served in the English Parliament in 1625.

Early Life and Royal Connections

Edward Wray was born in 1589 in Louth, Lincolnshire. He was the third son of Sir William Wray, 1st Baronet, of Glentworth.

When he was young, Edward became good friends with George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham. Villiers was a very powerful person close to King James I of England. Because of this friendship, Edward Wray became a favorite of the Duke.

In 1617, the Duke of Buckingham used his influence to help Edward. He arranged for Edward to become a Groom of the Bedchamber. This was an important job where Edward helped the King directly. It meant he was very close to the King and had a chance to become a powerful person at court.

A Challenging Marriage

Edward Wray fell in love with Elizabeth Norris of Rycote. She was the only daughter and heir of Francis Norris, 1st Earl of Berkshire. Being an "heir" meant she would inherit a lot of land and money.

However, another man wanted to marry Elizabeth. This was Christopher Villiers, who was the Duke of Buckingham's brother. The Duke wanted his brother to marry Elizabeth. He even used his power with the King to try and make it happen. It seemed Elizabeth might be forced to marry Christopher.

But Edward and Elizabeth had other plans! They decided to run away and get married without permission. This made the King very unhappy.

The Elopement

On 30 March 1622, Elizabeth secretly left the house where she was staying. She walked three miles before meeting Edward. They went to Aldermary Church and got married. After the wedding, they went to the house of the Earl of Oxford. The Earl of Oxford was helping them.

When Elizabeth's family found out, they tried to get her back. But the Earl of Oxford refused to give her up. Because of this, the Earl of Oxford lost his important job. Edward Wray also lost his position as a Groom of the Bedchamber. He was even put in prison for several months. Luckily, he was set free on 15 February 1623.

Some people believe this dramatic elopement inspired the famous composer Orlando Gibbons to write his musical pieces called Fantazies.

Political Role and Later Life

In 1625, Edward Wray was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for Oxfordshire. This meant he represented the people of Oxfordshire in the English Parliament.

After this, Edward Wray lived a quieter life at Fritwell, Oxfordshire. He passed away at the age of 68 and was buried on 29 March 1658. People remembered him as a very kind and religious man.

Family

Edward Wray and his wife, Lady Elizabeth Norris, had one daughter. Her name was Bridget. Bridget later married Montagu Bertie, 2nd Earl of Lindsey.