Francis Browne, 3rd Viscount Montagu facts for kids

Francis Browne, 3rd Viscount Montagu (born July 2, 1610 – died November 2, 1682), was an important nobleman in England. He was the oldest son of Anthony-Maria Browne, 2nd Viscount Montagu and Jane Sackville. His mother was the daughter of Thomas Sackville, 1st Earl of Dorset.

Francis Browne took over his father's title and lands on October 23, 1629. A "Viscount" is a noble rank, below an Earl but above a Baron.

His Family and Home

Francis Browne's main home was Cowdray House. This grand estate also included Easebourne Priory and a part of Fernhurst called Verdley. In February 1635, he had a special map made of these lands by a mapmaker named Nicholas Lane. This old map is now kept in the West Sussex Record Office. Francis also inherited a large estate from Battle Abbey.

Francis Browne married Lady Elizabeth Somerset (1618–1684) on July 6, 1637. She was the daughter of Henry Somerset, 1st Marquess of Worcester.

Francis's Children

Francis and Elizabeth had several children. Their sons, Francis (1638 – April 1708) and Henry (around 1640–1717), both later became Viscounts Montagu. This means they inherited the title after their father. Their daughter, Elizabeth Browne (died after 1686), married Christopher Roper, 5th Baron Teynham.

Some records mention an older son named Anthony, who was born before Francis became Viscount. There are different stories about Anthony. Some say he died young. Others say he had a family and later tried to claim the Viscount title, but he was not successful.

During the English Civil War

The English Civil War was a big conflict in England during the 1640s. It was fought between those who supported King Charles I (called "Royalists") and those who supported Parliament.

Francis Browne was a strong supporter of the King, making him a "Royalist." He was also a "Catholic," which was a difficult position to be in at that time. Because of his loyalty to the King and his religion, his lands and belongings were taken away by the Parliament's "Committee for Compounding with Delinquents." This committee dealt with people who had supported the King.

Losing his wealth and income meant Francis Browne had to rent out parts of his estate at Battle to make money.

Later Life and Death

Francis Browne, 3rd Viscount Montagu, lived to be 72 years old. He passed away on November 2, 1682.