Henry Compton (MP) facts for kids

Sir Henry Compton (born around 1584, died around 1649) was an English politician. He was a member of the House of Commons, which is like a part of today's Parliament, at different times between 1601 and 1640. He was also made a Knight of the Order of the Bath.

Early Life and First Steps in Politics

Henry Compton was born into an important family. His father was Henry Compton, 1st Baron Compton, and his mother was Anne Spencer. He grew up in Compton Wynyates, Warwickshire.

When he was about 15 years old, in 1599, he started studying at Christ Church, Oxford, a famous university. Just two years later, in 1601, he was chosen to be a member of parliament (MP) for a place called East Grinstead. This was his first step into national politics.

In 1603, he received a special honor: he was knighted into the Order of the Bath. This meant he was now called "Sir Henry Compton."

A Career in Parliament

Sir Henry Compton was very active in politics. He was re-elected as an MP for East Grinstead many times. He served in Parliament in 1604, 1614, and 1621.

Besides being an MP, he had other important jobs. He was a "ranger" of Ashdown Forest, which meant he helped manage and protect the forest. He was also a Justice of the Peace (J.P.) for Sussex, helping to keep law and order in the area. By 1624, he became a "deputy lieutenant," assisting the main representative of the King in the county.

He continued to be elected as an MP for East Grinstead in 1625, 1626, and 1628. He served until 1629. At this time, King Charles I decided to rule England without Parliament for eleven years.

Later Years and Family

In April 1640, Sir Henry Compton was elected as an MP for East Grinstead one last time. This Parliament was known as the Short Parliament because it didn't last very long.

Sir Henry Compton lived at a place called Brambletye in Sussex. He passed away around 1649.

He was married twice. His first wife was Cecily Sackville, and they had three sons and three daughters. Later, he married Mary Browne, and they had four sons and two daughters.