George Peard (1548–1621) facts for kids
George Peard (born 1548, died 1621) was an important person from Barnstaple in Devon, England. He was a lawyer and was chosen twice to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Barnstaple. This means he helped make laws for the country.
His nephew, also named George Peard, later became an MP for Barnstaple too.
Early Life and Family
George Peard was born in 1548. He was the oldest son of John Peard, who worked for the town of Barnstaple. His mother was Juliana Berry.
From Priest to Lawyer
George Peard first became a priest before 1572. He was even in charge of a church in Dorset. But he soon decided to change his career.
In 1573, he started studying law at Lincoln's Inn, a famous place for lawyers in London.
Becoming a Member of Parliament
In 1597, George Peard was elected as an MP for Barnstaple. This was a big deal because he was chosen by the people, even though the local lord wanted someone else.
He was elected again in 1604. As an MP, he spoke about things important to his home area. For example, he supported a plan to make Devon's farmland better by using sea sand.
Even though being an MP didn't pay much, George Peard earned a lot of money as a lawyer. When he died, he owned a lot of land and valuable things. He also left money for the poor people of Barnstaple. He gave a special silver bowl to the town for its mayors to use forever.
Personal Life
In 1576, George Peard married Agnes Jewell. They had one son, but sadly, he died before his father.
George Peard passed away on January 31, 1621. Since he had no living children, his younger brother, John Peard, became his main heir. John Peard was also the Mayor of Barnstaple in 1606.
George Peard asked to be buried in St Peter's Church in Barnstaple, close to his son's grave. You can still see two special monuments to the Peard family in that church today.
