Henry Hastings (sportsman) facts for kids

Henry Hastings (born around 1561 – died October 15, 1650) was an English gentleman who owned land and loved country sports. He was a strong supporter of the King during the English Civil War, a big conflict in England.

Early Life and Land Holdings

Henry Hastings was the second son of George Hastings, 4th Earl of Huntingdon. While some old records say he was born in 1551, it seems he was actually born about ten years later, around 1561.

He gained control of a large area of land called Puddletown from King James I. Through his marriage, he also got Woodlands Park, which was near a place called Horton, Dorset. This is where he lived for much of his life.

Supporting the King

During the English Civil War, Henry Hastings strongly supported King Charles I. This war was fought between those loyal to the King (called Royalists) and those who supported Parliament.

Because he sided with the King, his home and land at Woodlands were taken by the Parliamentarian side in 1645. This property was worth about £300 in 1641. Later, Henry had to pay £500 to get his property back.

A True Country Gentleman

Henry Hastings was known as a typical "country squire" of his time. This meant he was a gentleman who owned land and lived in the countryside, often focusing on outdoor activities. People said he was kind-hearted but could get angry quickly.

He always wore clothes that were green. He loved hunting and kept many different kinds of hunting dogs and hawks. His home was filled with trophies from his hunts. You could find his favorite dogs and cats in every corner of his house!

His Home and Lifestyle

Henry Hastings's home was very welcoming. He got all his food from his own farms and fishponds. He was known for being very generous and always ready to host guests.

One interesting detail about his home was his larder, which is a cool room for storing food. He used the pulpit from an old, unused chapel nearby as his larder!

Sir Anthony Ashley Cooper, 1st Earl of Shaftesbury, who lived near Henry Hastings, wrote about him. This description was even put on a painting of Henry. These writings help us understand what his daily life was like.

Family and Legacy

Henry Hastings married Dorothy Willoughby. She was the second daughter of Sir Francis Willoughby, who built the famous Wollaton Hall in Nottinghamshire. Dorothy passed away on December 15, 1638.

Later, in 1639, Henry married Anne Langton. However, she is not mentioned in the special message carved on his tombstone. After Henry's death, Woodlands Park eventually became part of Lord Shaftesbury's estate.

Henry Hastings was buried with his first wife, Dorothy, and their son, Sir George Hastings, in the old church of Horton. Their burial place is in the Hastings family section, located in the belfry of the church.