George Leigh facts for kids
George Leigh (who was also known as George Lye) was an English politician who lived from about 1530 to 1578. He played an important role in the government of his time, both in the national Parliament and in his local town.
George Leigh's Life and Work
George Leigh was an important person in England during the 1500s. He was involved in both national and local politics, helping to make decisions for his country and his community.
Being a Member of Parliament
A Member of Parliament (often called an MP) is someone chosen to represent people in the country's main law-making group, called the Parliament. George Leigh was an MP for the town of Shrewsbury many times. He served in Parliament in March 1553, November 1554, 1558, 1559, 1571, and 1572. He also represented the town of Ripon in Parliament in 1563.
Working in Shrewsbury
Besides being an MP, George Leigh was also a successful merchant in Shrewsbury. He was very active in the local government of his town.
- In 1555, he became a burgess, which meant he was a member of the town's common council, helping to manage local affairs.
- Later, in 1565, he became an alderman, a more senior position in the town's government.
- He also served as a bailiff for the borough of Shrewsbury three times: from 1564 to 1565, from 1568 to 1569, and from 1574 to 1575. A bailiff was a chief officer who helped run the town and enforce its laws.
His Family
George Leigh was the second son of John Leigh of Ellesmere, Shropshire. His mother was Catherine, whose family came from Petsey in Stoke on Tern, also in Shropshire. George Leigh married a woman named Mary, who was the daughter of Thomas Sturry of Rossall. Together, they had four sons and one daughter.
