Henry Berkeley (MP for Ilchester) facts for kids

Sir Henry Berkeley (1579–1667) was an English politician. He was a member of the House of Commons, which is like the main law-making group in England. He served there at different times between 1626 and 1640. Sir Henry was a strong supporter of the King's side, known as the Royalists, during the English Civil War.

Early Life and Family

Henry Berkeley was born in 1579. His father was also named Sir Henry Berkeley, from a place called Bruton. His mother was Margaret Lygon.

When he was just 11 years old, in 1590, Henry started studying at Queen's College, Oxford University. His brother, Maurice, also studied there with him.

In 1601, Henry inherited a large estate called Yarlington after his father passed away. A few years later, on April 29, 1609, he was made a knight by the King at Whitehall. This meant he was given the title "Sir."

Political Career

Sir Henry Berkeley became a Member of Parliament (MP) in 1626. He represented the area of Somerset. Being an MP meant he helped make laws and decisions for the country.

In 1628, he was elected MP again, this time for Ilchester. He served until 1629. At that time, King Charles I decided to rule England without Parliament for eleven years. This was a very unusual period in English history.

Parliament was called back in April 1640, and Sir Henry was again elected MP for Ilchester. This Parliament was known as the Short Parliament because it didn't last very long.

English Civil War

The English Civil War began a few years later. Sir Henry Berkeley was a loyal supporter of King Charles I. He was appointed a "Commissioner of Array" for the King. This role meant he helped gather soldiers and supplies for the Royalist army in his area.

The war was a difficult time for England. Sir Henry was with the Royalist forces when the city of Exeter surrendered to the Parliament's army on April 13, 1646.

Later Life and Legacy

Sir Henry Berkeley passed away sometime between 1666 and 1667.

He was married to Elizabeth Nevill. Her father was Sir Henry Nevill and her mother was Ann Killigrew. Sir Henry Berkeley and Elizabeth had a daughter named Dorothy. Dorothy later married a man named Francis Godolphin. Through their marriage, the Yarlington estate, which Sir Henry had inherited, became part of the Godolphin family's property.