Francis Fortescue facts for kids
Sir Francis Fortescue (born around 1563, died 1624) was an important English politician. He was known for serving in the government during the time of Queen Elizabeth I and King James I. He held several important jobs and was a Member of Parliament, helping to make laws for the country.
Early Life and Family
Francis Fortescue was born around 1563. He was the oldest son of John Fortescue of Salden and his wife, Cecily Ashfield. Salden was a place near Mursley in England. Francis had two younger brothers, William and Thomas.
In 1589, Francis Fortescue married Grace Manners. Her father was Sir John Manners of Haddon Hall. Francis and Grace had at least one son, named John, who would later inherit his father's property. They also had a daughter named Dorothy Vernon. She later married Sir Robert Throckmorton of Weston Underwood, Buckinghamshire and Coughton Court.
Political Career
Sir Francis Fortescue had a busy career in politics. In 1600, he became the Custos Rotulorum of Buckinghamshire. This was a very important job, like being the chief record keeper and head of the local justice system for the county of Buckinghamshire.
In 1608, he became the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire. The High Sheriff was a royal officer responsible for law enforcement and keeping the peace in the county.
Sir Francis also served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for different areas.
- In 1589, 1593, and 1597, he was an MP for Buckingham.
- In 1601, he represented Buckinghamshire as an MP.
Being an MP meant he helped make laws and decisions for England in the Parliament.
