George Selby facts for kids

Sir George Selby (1557–1625) was an important English politician. He served in the English Parliament from 1601 to 1611. He was known for his public service in Newcastle-upon-Tyne and for hosting King James I.

Early Life and Public Service

George Selby was born in 1557. His father was William Selby, and his mother was Elizabeth Fenwick.

Selby began his career in public service in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. In 1594, he became a sheriff. A sheriff was a key official responsible for law and order in a county or city.

He also served as an alderman, which is a senior member of a city council. He held this position from around 1600 until his death. Selby was elected mayor of Newcastle four times: in 1600, 1606, 1611, and 1622. Being mayor was a very important role, overseeing the city's affairs.

In 1601, he was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Newcastle-upon-Tyne. This meant he represented the city in the English Parliament.

Helping the Queen

In 1594, George Selby played a part in a notable event. He helped capture two people who had run away from the Scottish royal court. These individuals, Jacob Kroger and Guillaume Martyn, had taken some jewelry belonging to Anne of Denmark, who was the Queen of Scotland.

They were tired of their jobs because they hadn't been paid. After crossing the border into England, they met a fugitive, the Earl of Bothwell. He took their belongings.

Selby, along with Thomas Power, then arrested the two men. They were taken to Tynemouth Castle. From there, they were sent back to Edinburgh in Scotland to face justice.

Later Career and Royal Connections

George Selby's importance grew over time. On July 23, 1603, he was knighted by King James I. This happened during the king's coronation ceremony. Being knighted was a great honor, showing his loyalty and service to the Crown.

In 1604, he was re-elected as an MP for Newcastle. Later, he was appointed High Sheriff of Northumberland in 1607. He also became High Sheriff of Durham for life, a special appointment by the Bishop of Durham.

In 1614, he was elected as an MP for Northumberland. However, he was disqualified by Parliament. This was partly because he was serving as a sheriff at the same time.

Hosting the King

Sir George Selby had a special connection with King James I. On April 23, 1617, King James visited Newcastle. During his visit, the King stayed at Selby's home.

Records from Selby's house show details of the "King's Chamber." This room had fancy furniture, including three beds, a mirror, and a special Chinese cabinet. Hosting the King showed how respected and important Sir George Selby was.

Family and Legacy

Sir George Selby married Margaret Selby. She was the daughter of Sir John Selby of Twizell.

Sir George Selby passed away in 1625 at the age of 69. He was buried at the church of St Nicholas in Newcastle. A monument was built in his honor, which mentioned his kindness and hospitality to the King. This monument was later removed in 1777.