Henry Brouncker, 3rd Viscount Brouncker facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Viscount Brouncker
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| Cofferer of the Household | |
| In office 9 December 1679 – 6 February 1685 |
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| Monarch | Charles II |
| Preceded by | William Ashburnham |
| Succeeded by | Sir Peter Apsley |
| Personal details | |
| Born | c. 1627 Likely Ireland |
| Died | 4 January 1688 (aged 60–61) Surrey, England |
| Resting place | Richmond, London, England |
| Spouse | Rebecca Rodway |
| Alma mater | University of Oxford |
Henry Brouncker, 3rd Viscount Brouncker (c. 1627 – 4 January 1688) was an important person in Anglo-Irish history. He was a courtier, meaning he served in the royal court, and a politician. He worked for King Charles II as his Cofferer of the Household, managing the royal household's finances. He also served James, Duke of York, who later became King James II. Henry Brouncker was also a member of Parliament and was known for being a very skilled player of games like chess.
Contents
Life of Henry Brouncker
His Early Life
Henry Brouncker was likely born in Ireland around 1627. His grandfather had been a significant leader in Munster, Ireland. Henry was the second son of William Brouncker, who was the 1st Viscount Brouncker. His mother was Winifred Leigh.
Henry's older brother was William Brouncker, 2nd Viscount Brouncker. William was a famous mathematician and the very first President of the Royal Society, a group for scientists. Their father was given the title of Viscount in 1645 by King Charles I of England. This was a reward for his loyal service to the King.
Studying at Oxford
Henry Brouncker attended Oxford University. He completed his studies there in 1646. He earned a degree as a Doctor of Medicine (DM).
A Career in Politics
Henry Brouncker became a Member of Parliament (MP). He represented the area of New Romney from 1665.
Leaving Parliament
Henry Brouncker was removed from the House of Commons in 1668. This happened after serious accusations were made against him. During the Second Anglo-Dutch War, he was accused of allowing the Dutch fleet to escape during the Battle of Lowestoft. He was also accused of giving an order to slow down the English fleet's sails. This order was given in the name of the Duke of York, but without the Duke's permission. It seemed he did this because he was tired of the battle's stress and noise.
Working for the King
In 1673, Henry Brouncker worked as a Commissioner of Trade and Plantation. This role involved managing trade and new settlements.
On December 9, 1679, he became the Cofferer of the Household for King Charles II. This was an important job managing the King's household finances. He took over after William Ashburnham passed away. Henry Brouncker held this position until February 6, 1685, when King Charles II died. He also served as a Gentleman of the Bedchamber for James, Duke of York. This was a close personal attendant role to the Duke.
Family and Later Life
Henry and his older brother William did not get along well. When William died in 1684, he chose not to leave any of his wealth to Henry. William stated he had "reasons I think not fit to mention" for this decision. However, Henry did inherit the title of Viscount when William died, as it was passed down through the family.
Henry Brouncker had married Rebecca Rodway in 1661. She was the widow of Thomas Jermyn. Henry and Rebecca did not have any children.
Henry Brouncker passed away on January 4, 1688. He died at Sheen Abbey in Surrey, England. He was buried at the Church of St Mary Magdalene, Richmond, also in Surrey. Since he and his wife had no children, his family titles ended when he died.
