Frescheville Holles facts for kids
Sir Frescheville Holles (born June 8, 1642 – died May 28, 1672) was a brave English Royal Navy officer. He was also a politician who served in the House of Commons, which is like the UK's Parliament today. Sir Frescheville was known for his courage and sadly died fighting in a big naval battle during the Anglo-Dutch War.
His father, Gervase Holles, was also an important person. He had been the Mayor of Grimsby and a Member of Parliament for the town.
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A Young Officer's Start
Frescheville Holles began his career in the military. He was a major in the Westminster militia, which was a local defense force. He also commanded a privateer ship called the Panther. A privateer was a private ship allowed by the government to attack enemy ships.
A very important person, George Monck, 1st Duke of Albemarle, recommended Holles for the Royal Navy. This was a big step for him.
In 1666, Holles was commanding a ship called HMS Antelope. He fought bravely in a huge naval battle known as the Four Days Battle. During this battle, he was seriously injured and lost an arm. For his courage, he was made a knight in June of the same year. This meant he was given the title "Sir."
A Life in Politics
After his military achievements, Sir Frescheville Holles also became involved in politics.
Serving in Parliament
In 1667, he was elected as a Member of Parliament for Grimsby. He served in the Cavalier Parliament, which was the name for the Parliament at that time.
Mayor of Grimsby
In 1667, he also became a captain in the 2nd Foot Guards, a famous army regiment. However, he left this command in 1669. That same year, he followed in his father's footsteps and became the Mayor of Grimsby.
In January 1672, Sir Frescheville Holles was honored again. He was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a very old and respected group of scientists.
Final Battle and Legacy
Sir Frescheville Holles's life ended bravely in battle.
The Third Dutch War
In March 1672, he sailed from Portsmouth with another famous officer, Sir Robert Holmes. They attacked a group of Dutch merchant ships in the English Channel. This attack was approved by the English government. It led to the start of the Third Dutch War between England and the Netherlands.
Death in Battle
On May 28, 1672, Sir Frescheville Holles was commanding his ship, HMS Cambridge. He was fighting in the Battle of Solebay, a major naval battle. Sadly, he was killed in action at just 29 years old.
He was given a special funeral at Westminster Abbey, a very important church in London. He was buried in St Edmund's chapel, though his grave does not have a marker.
Family
Sir Frescheville Holles was married to Jane. She was the daughter of Richard Lewis.
