Gervase Holles facts for kids

Gervase Holles (born 9 March 1607 – died 10 February 1675) was an English lawyer, a historian who studied old things, and a politician. He was a member of the House of Commons from 1640 to 1642. During the English Civil War, he fought for the King's side, known as the Royalists.

Early Life and First Steps in Politics

Gervase Holles was born in Grimsby, Lincolnshire. He was the son of Frescheville Holles. Gervase was baptized in Grimsby on 13 March 1607.

He became the Mayor of Grimsby twice, first in 1636 and again in 1638. In 1639, he finished his law studies and became a lawyer at Middle Temple in London.

Serving in Parliament and the Civil War

In April 1640, Gervase Holles was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Grimsby. This was for a short time, in what was called the Short Parliament. Later that year, in November 1640, he was re-elected as an MP for Grimsby for the Long Parliament.

Holles strongly supported King Charles I. Because of his support for the King, he was removed from Parliament in August 1642. He earned a Master of Arts (MA) degree from Oxford University on 1 November 1642. During the English Civil War, he served as a colonel in the army for King Charles I. He also served King Louis XIV of France for a time.

While he was living away from England in Holland, Holles continued his work as a historian. He wrote about historical topics, including books like Parentela Hollesiorum and Lincolnshire Church Notes. These books helped record important history.

Return to Politics After the King's Return

After the King returned to power in England, an event known as the Restoration, Gervase Holles was re-elected as an MP for Grimsby in 1661. This time, he served in the Cavalier Parliament until he passed away in 1675.

In 1663, he became the Mayor of Grimsby for the third and final time. He also worked for King Charles II as a secretary, handling petitions (requests from people). He was also one of the Masters of Requests, which meant he helped deal with legal requests made to the King.

Family Life

Gervase Holles was married twice. His second wife was Elizabeth Molesworth. They had one son, named Frescheville Holles. Just like his father, Frescheville also became the Mayor and an MP for Grimsby.

Gervase Holles died when he was 67 years old. He was buried in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire.]