Henry Holcroft facts for kids

Sir Henry Holcroft (born 1586, died 1650) was an English politician. He was a member of the House of Commons (like today's Parliament) from 1624 to 1629. He also held important jobs in the government of Ireland, which was run from Dublin Castle at the time.

Early Life and Family Connections

Henry Holcroft was the son of Thomas Holcroft and Joan Roydon. His grandfather was Geoffrey Holcroft. In 1592, his mother married Sir Oliver St John. This connection helped Henry later in his career.

Working in Government

Sir Henry Holcroft held several important positions. On August 30, 1616, he became the Chief Secretary for Ireland. This was when Sir Oliver St John was the Lord Deputy of Ireland, a top government role.

Just a few months later, on March 13, 1617, Henry was made Chancellor of the Exchequer of Ireland. This job was similar to being in charge of the country's money. He gained land in County Limerick and County Kerry. This happened through a common practice where officials would find and claim hidden lands.

He was knighted on May 1, 1622. Twelve days later, he became the king's secretary for Irish affairs. Henry kept this job even after Charles I of England became king in 1625. This was thanks to his friend, George Villiers, 1st Duke of Buckingham, who was very influential.

Time in Parliament

In 1624, Sir Henry Holcroft was elected as a Member of Parliament for Stockbridge. This meant he represented the people of that area in the House of Commons.

He was elected again in 1628, this time for Newton. He served until 1629. At this time, King Charles I decided to rule without Parliament for eleven years.

Henry played a key role in talks in 1628. These talks were about getting money from settlers in Ireland to help defend the country. In return, the king offered them some special agreements.

Later Life and the Civil War

After his friend, the Duke of Buckingham, passed away, Holcroft joined a new committee. This group handled requests and complaints from people in Ireland. He also invested in different businesses. For example, he put £500 into a voyage by the East India Company in 1629.

In 1634, Henry retired from his duties in London and Dublin. He became a justice of the peace in Essex. This meant he helped keep law and order in the area. He owned land there at Greenstreet House.

During the English Civil War, Sir Henry Holcroft supported Parliament. He was part of John Pym's council of war in 1643. From 1649 to 1650, he helped Parliament sell off lands that belonged to the king. Sir Henry Holcroft died in London when he was about 64 years old.