Henry Hele facts for kids

Henry Hele (born around 1688 or 1689 – died 1778) was an English doctor. He became very wealthy and owned a lot of land in places like Wiltshire and Somerset.

Early Life and Family

Henry Hele was the son of Richard Hele, who lived in Salisbury. His father was a gentleman. Henry had two brothers, Richard and John, and two sisters, Amy and Susannah. His brother Richard later became a prebendary in Salisbury, which is a type of church official.

A Doctor's Career

Henry Hele worked as a successful doctor in Salisbury for more than 50 years. He was a well-known physician. He sometimes had disagreements with another younger doctor named John Barker. These discussions were even written about in the local newspaper, the Salisbury Journal.

In 1766, Henry Hele was chosen to be one of the first two doctors for a new hospital. This hospital later became known as the Salisbury Infirmary. It was a big step for healthcare in the area.

Homes and Land

From 1744, Henry Hele lived in a beautiful house called Myles Place. It was one of the nicest homes in the Cathedral Close area of Salisbury. He bought and sold a lot of land during his life. He became the owner of large estates, including areas in Sock Dennis and South Petherton in Somerset. He also owned Brook House and Lodgwood Farm, which were near Westbury, Wiltshire.

Family and Passing

Henry Hele was married twice. His first wife was Martha Vince. They had two daughters together, Jane and Martha. Jane later married Thomas Phipps. Martha married Joceline Robinson.

In 1737, Henry Hele married his second wife, Jane Rolfe. It was said that Jane brought a large sum of money with her when they married.

Henry Hele passed away on June 24, 1778. He was buried in Salisbury Cathedral. His will showed that he left behind a lot of money, more than £23,000, and all his properties. His memorial in the cathedral honors his long and successful career as a doctor in Salisbury.