Francis Knollys (admiral) facts for kids

Sir Francis Knollys (born around 1552, died 1648) was an important English politician and privateer. He lived at Reading Abbey in Berkshire. He served as a member of the House of Commons for many years, starting in 1575 and continuing until his death in 1648.

About Sir Francis Knollys

Early Life and Education

Francis Knollys was the sixth son in his family. His father was also named Sir Francis Knollys, and his mother was Catherine Carey. The family lived at Greys Court in Oxfordshire and Reading Abbey in Reading. To avoid confusion with his father, he was often called Francis Knollys the younger.

He went to Magdalen College, Oxford around 1564. Later, in 1565, he studied law at Gray's Inn. These were important steps for young men who wanted to work in government or law.

A Life in Politics and Adventure

In December 1575, Francis Knollys became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Oxford. An MP is a person elected to represent a group of people in the House of Commons. This is where laws are made and discussed. He held this job until 1589.

During these early years, he joined Sir Francis Drake on exciting sea voyages. He was a rear-admiral, which is a high-ranking naval officer. They were involved in privateering in the Caribbean Sea. Privateering meant they were allowed by the English government to attack and capture enemy ships. They returned in 1586 with many valuable goods.

Soon after, he served in the military with his brother-in-law, the Earl of Leicester. This was during a campaign in the Netherlands. He was knighted by the Earl of Leicester in Flushing on December 7, 1587. Being knighted meant he was given the title "Sir."

Long Career in Parliament

Sir Francis Knollys was elected as an MP again in 1597. This time, he represented Berkshire. He received a Master of Arts degree from Oxford University in 1598.

He continued his political career, being re-elected for Berkshire in 1604. He served in Parliament until 1611. He was elected MP for Berkshire once more in 1625.

In April 1640, Knollys was elected MP for Reading in the Short Parliament. His son was also elected at the same time. He was then re-elected for the Long Parliament in November 1640. He remained an MP until his death in 1648.

Later Life and Legacy

Sir Francis Knollys passed away before May 1648. He was about 95 years old. His colleagues in Parliament called him "the ancientest Parliament man in England." He was one of the oldest people ever to serve in Parliament. He also holds the record for the longest time serving as an MP, with 73 years between his first election and his death.

He was buried at St Laurence's Church, Reading. In 1588, he married Lettice Barrett. They had three sons and six daughters. Some of his children, like Robert and Francis, also became politicians but passed away before him. His daughter Lettice married John Hampden, another important figure in Parliament.