Francis Cherry (non-juror) facts for kids

Francis Cherry (born in 1665 – died September 23, 1713) was an English gentleman known for his kindness and generosity. He was also a "non-juror," which meant he refused to swear loyalty to the new King and Queen of England after a big change in government.

Early Life and Generosity

Francis Cherry was born in Maidenhead, England, in 1665. His parents were William and Anne Cherry. He grew up in a place called Shottesbrooke. When he was around 20, he married Eliza Finch. They lived with his father at Shottesbrooke.

Francis's father was very generous and gave him a lot of money each year. Francis used this money to help others. One person he supported was Thomas Hearne, who later became a famous historian. Francis sent Thomas to school and even let him live in his house. He helped Thomas with his studies and gave him money until he finished his university degree.

Why He Was a Non-Juror

After the "Glorious Revolution" in England, King James II was replaced by William III and Mary II. Some people, including Francis Cherry, believed that King James II was still the rightful king. They refused to swear an oath of loyalty to the new King and Queen. These people were called "non-jurors."

Francis Cherry became a big supporter of many important non-jurors. He often welcomed them into his home at Shottesbrooke. For example, he hosted Thomas Ken, a former bishop, and Robert Nelson. He even helped Henry Dodwell find a house nearby.

Francis also helped Charles Leslie, another non-juror, by hiding him for a while. He even sent Leslie to Rome to meet with the old "Chevalier de St. George," who was the son of the former King James II. The prince sent Francis a special ring to show his thanks.

Even though Francis was a non-juror, he still got along well with people who supported the new government, like White Kennet. Later in his life, on February 26, 1710, Francis and some of his friends decided to rejoin the main Church of England.

Later Years and Passing

When Francis Cherry's father passed away, Francis took on all of his father's debts, which were a very large amount of money. This caused him serious financial problems. At one point, he was even briefly held in a jail in Reading because of a debt.

Francis Cherry passed away on September 23, 1713. He was buried two days later in Shottesbrooke churchyard. He wanted his funeral to be private and simple. On his tombstone, only a few words were written: "Hic jacet peccatorum maximus" (which means "Here lies the greatest of sinners") and the year he died. This showed his humble nature.

His Legacy

Francis Cherry's kindness continued to help others even after his death. His wife gave his important handwritten papers to the University of Oxford. One of these papers, a letter from Thomas Hearne, caused some trouble for Hearne later on. The family home at Shottesbrooke was sold in 1717.

Family Life

Francis Cherry had two sons who sadly died when they were very young. He also had three daughters. His oldest daughter, Anne, gave a painting of her father to the University Gallery. His youngest daughter, Eliza, married Henry Frinsham and became the mother of Eliza Berkeley, who was also a notable person.