Henry Ireton (died 1711) facts for kids

Henry Ireton (around 1652 – 1711) was an important English figure. He was an army officer and a landowner from Williamstrip, Gloucestershire. He also served as a Whig politician in the English and British parliaments between 1698 and 1711.

Early Life and Family Connections

Henry Ireton was the only son of General Henry Ireton and Bridget Cromwell. His mother, Bridget, was the daughter of the famous Oliver Cromwell. Oliver Cromwell was a very powerful leader in England during the 1600s. Henry Ireton took over his father's estates in 1651.

Facing Challenges

In 1684, Henry Ireton faced some difficulties and left England for Holland. He returned in April 1685 but was held for a short time. He managed to get away but was later found again. After some time, he was cleared of any wrongdoing in April 1686. He later married Katherine Powle, whose father, Henry Powle, was also a Member of Parliament.

Military and Royal Service

Henry Ireton had a career serving the King and in the army. From 1689 to 1702, he was an Equerry to King William. This meant he was a special attendant to the King. He also served in wars that took place in Holland.

Army Ranks and Land

After 1689, Ireton became a captain in a cavalry unit called Colonel Godfrey's Horse. By 1693, he was a major in the 1st Troop of Horse Guards. When his father-in-law passed away in 1692, Henry Ireton gained more land and properties, including the Williamstrip estate. He also served as a lieutenant and lieutenant-colonel in the Grenadier Guards from 1694 to 1704.

Political Career in Parliament

Henry Ireton wanted to serve in the English Parliament. He first tried to become a Member of Parliament (MP) for Cirencester in 1695. However, he was not well-known there and was serving in the army at the time, so he did not win.

Becoming a Member of Parliament

Ireton tried again in 1698, and this time he was elected as the MP for Cirencester without anyone running against him. He was re-elected for Cirencester in 1705. Later, in the 1708 election, he became the MP for Tewkesbury.

Later Life and Legacy

Henry Ireton passed away on December 14, 1711, when he was 59 years old. He did not have any children. He was buried near his estate in a place called Quenington.