Henry Fanshawe (1569–1616) facts for kids

Sir Henry Fanshawe (1569–1616) was an important English politician. He served as a Member of the English Parliament, which means he helped make laws for the country. He also held a special job called Remembrancer of the Exchequer, where he managed the government's financial records.

Early Life

Growing Up and Education

Henry Fanshawe was born in 1569. His father, Thomas Fanshawe (remembrancer of the exchequer), also held the same important financial job. Henry went to Peterhouse, Cambridge university and later studied law at the Inner Temple.

When his father passed away in 1601, Henry inherited some valuable properties. These included Ware Park, a large house near Ware, Hertfordshire, and a house in London. He also inherited part of St. John's Wood. He had to share his home at Ware Park with his stepmother and sisters until they got married.

Career

Working for the Queen and King

Henry Fanshawe took over his father's job as the Remembrancer of the Exchequer. This meant he was in charge of keeping track of the government's money and accounts. Queen Elizabeth I thought very highly of him. She reportedly called him "the best officer of accounts she had."

He was elected as a Member of Parliament (M.P.) for Westbury in 1588 and again in 1592. Later, he represented Boroughbridge in 1597. In 1603, shortly after his coronation, King James I made him a knight.

Helping to Settle America

Sir Henry was also a member of the Virginia Company of London. This company helped set up the first English colonies in America. He signed the important papers that created the new Colony of Virginia. Because of his investments and help, his family received thousands of acres of land there.

Interests and Hobbies

Sir Henry was good friends with Prince Henry, the king's son. If Prince Henry had lived longer, Sir Henry might have become a very important government official. He loved learning Italian and was very interested in horses. He even bred and rode them. His daughter-in-law, Anne, Lady Fanshawe, wrote that he had a large staff and a good income of about £4,000 a year. He managed his money well and didn't leave any debts.

Sir Henry's garden at Ware Park was also famous. It was known for its beautiful flowers, medicinal herbs, and fruits. In 1612, an ambassador from the Duke of Savoy visited him at Ware Park. The next year, the ambassador sent the Fanshawes gifts, including Italian cheeses, gloves, and a perfumed fan.

Sir Henry also loved music. He supported the composer John Ward, who dedicated a book of his songs to him in 1613.

Private Life

Family and Legacy

Sir Henry Fanshawe passed away suddenly in 1616 at Ware, at the age of 48. He was buried at St Mary's Church on March 12. His daughter-in-law described him as a very handsome and kind gentleman. She said he was an excellent husband, father, and friend.

He was married to Elizabeth Smythe. They had six sons and four daughters:

• Thomas
• Henry (born 1600)
• Simon (1604–1678)
• Walter (born 1605)
• Richard (1608–1666) who married Anne, Lady Fanshawe
• Michael (born 1611)
• Alice
• Mary
• Joan (born 1607)
• Anne (born 1609)

His wife, Elizabeth, was born in 1577 and lived until 1631. She was also highly praised by her daughter-in-law.

Sir Henry's will, written in 1613, showed his strong belief in the Protestant religion. He left many of his valuable possessions, like oil paintings, prints, drawings, medals, armor, books, and musical instruments, to his family. He wanted them to stay at Ware Park forever as family treasures.