Francis Popham (1573–1644) facts for kids

Sir Francis Popham shown as a young man aged 34, kneeling effigy in Wellington Church, Somerset, at east end of 1607 monument to his father Sir John Popham (1531–1607), Lord Chief Justice of England

Arms of Popham: Argent, on a chief gules two stag's heads cabossed or

Sir Francis Popham and his wife Anne Dudley, effigies at east end of 1607 monument to his father Sir John Popham

Sir Francis Popham (1573–1644) was an important English soldier and landowner. He lived in Wellington, Somerset. He was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) nine times. This means he was chosen by people to represent them in the English Parliament.

He represented different areas like Somerset, Wiltshire, Marlborough, Great Bedwin, Chippenham, and Minehead.

Family Background

Francis Popham was the only son of Sir John Popham (1531–1607). His father was a very important person in England. Sir John was the Speaker of the House of Commons. He was also the Attorney General and the Lord Chief Justice of England. This meant he was a top lawyer and judge.

Francis's mother was Amy Adams. She was the daughter of Hugh Adams from Castleton, St Athan, in Glamorgan.

Sir Francis Popham's Career

Littlecote House, Berkshire (now in Wiltshire), seat of Sir Francis Popham, who also lived at Wellington House, demolished in 1645 during the Civil War

Francis Popham started his education at Balliol College, Oxford, when he was 15 years old. He also studied law at the Middle Temple.

As a soldier, he served under a famous leader, Robert Devereux, 2nd Earl of Essex. Francis fought in Spain and was made a knight in 1596. This was a great honor.

Serving in Parliament

In 1597, Popham was first elected as an MP for Somerset. He also worked as a Justice of the Peace (JP) for Wiltshire and Somerset. JPs helped keep law and order. He was also a Deputy Lieutenant for both counties. In 1603, he became a Knight of the Bath, another high honor.

After his father died in 1607, Francis inherited large estates, including Littlecote House. He also became the constable of Taunton Castle in 1613.

He continued to be elected as an MP for many years. He represented Wiltshire in 1604, Marlborough in 1614, and Great Bedwin in 1621.

Representing Chippenham

Popham was elected MP for Chippenham several times. He won elections there in 1624, 1625, 1626, and 1628. He served until 1629. At that time, King Charles I decided not to call Parliament for eleven years.

Later Years in Parliament

In 1640, Popham was elected MP for Minehead. This was in the Long Parliament, which lasted for many years. He served as an MP until he died.

Sir Francis Popham was also interested in the new colonies in North America. He was part of the council for both the Virginia and New England colonies.

Family Life

Anne Dudley, wife of Sir Francis Popham, detail of her kneeling effigy in Wellington Church, at east end of 1607 monument to her father-in-law Sir John Popham

Sir Francis Popham married Anne Dudley. She was the daughter of John Dudley.

Francis and Anne had a large family. They had four sons and seven daughters. Some of their notable children included:

• John Popham (died 1638), who also became an MP.
• Alexander Popham, another son who became an MP.
• Edward Popham, who became a General at Sea during the English Civil War.
• Jane Popham (died 1668), who married Thomas Luttrell, another MP.
• Frances Popham, who married The Viscount Conway.
• Amy Popham, who married William Borlase.

Death and Burial

Sir Francis Popham passed away in 1644. He was first buried in Stoke Newington in August 1644. Later, in March 1647, his body was moved and reburied in Bristol.