George Peckham (merchant) facts for kids

Sir George Peckham (died 1608) was an English merchant and explorer. He was known for his efforts to establish new settlements in North America.

Early Life and Knighthood

George Peckham was the third son of Sir Edmund Peckham. He inherited land in Denham, England. In 1570, he was made a knight, which meant he received the title "Sir."

In 1572, Sir George was given an important job. He became the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. A High Sheriff was a powerful official in a county. They were responsible for keeping the peace and enforcing the law.

Plans for New Lands

Sir George Peckham was very interested in exploring and settling new lands. In 1574, he joined with other famous explorers. These included Sir Humphrey Gilbert, Sir Richard Grenville, and Christopher Carleill. They asked Queen Elizabeth I for permission to go on an expedition. Their goal was to find and claim new territories for England.

This big plan to explore and settle new lands finally began in 1583. Sir George Peckham was a main leader in this effort. He worked closely with Thomas Gerard. Sir Humphrey Gilbert gave Peckham large areas of land and the freedom to trade there.

In November 1583, Sir George Peckham published a book called A True Reporte. This book explained his plans for settlement. One important reason for these plans was to offer a new home for Catholics. At that time, Catholics in England faced difficulties if they did not attend Anglican church services. The idea was to create a place where they could live freely.

Later Years and Family

Later in his life, Sir George Peckham faced financial problems. Because of money he owed to the crown, his estate in Denham was given to the Queen in 1595. The Queen then gave the estate to William Bowyer.

Sir George Peckham died in 1608. He was married twice. In 1554, he married Susan Webbe, who sadly died young. He later had two sons with his second wife. Their names were Edmund and George. George became his heir.