Henry Redford facts for kids

Sir Henry Redford or Retford (born around 1354 – died around 1409) was an important English politician. He served as a Knight of the Shire, which meant he represented his local area in Parliament. He was also the Sheriff of Lincolnshire and even became the Speaker of the House of Commons.

Early Life and Career

Henry Redford began his public service in 1384. He worked on several special royal tasks and was given the title of knight. This was a great honor.

In 1385, he joined King Richard II on a military trip to Scotland. The trip didn't go well. The next year, in 1386, he traveled with John of Gaunt on a journey to Spain.

Serving Lincolnshire

Sir Henry Redford was very active in his home county of Lincolnshire. He served as the High Sheriff of Lincolnshire three times: in 1389, 1392, and 1397. The Sheriff was like the chief law enforcement officer for the county.

He also represented Lincolnshire in the English Parliament. He was a Knight of the Shire in 1400. In 1401, he was asked to join the King's special advisory group, known as the Privy Council.

Speaker of the House of Commons

In 1402, Sir Henry Redford again represented Lincolnshire in Parliament. This Parliament met on October 1st, 1402. Just two days later, he was chosen to be the Speaker of the House of Commons. The Speaker's job is to lead the meetings and make sure everyone follows the rules.

A Big Request

This Parliament first met in Coventry. It later moved to Westminster because there were problems finding places to stay and enough food. During the meeting, the Lord Chancellor, a high-ranking official, made a big request. He asked Parliament for money to pay for many wars. These included wars against Scotland and Wales, and to defend areas like Ireland and parts of France.

Parliament was surprised by how much money was needed. They spent several days trying to decide what to do but couldn't agree. On October 10th, they asked the King for permission to talk with members of the House of Lords. The King agreed, even though he wasn't happy about it.

Parliament's Decision

To help Parliament decide, four Bishops, four Earls, and four Barons from the House of Lords joined them. Together, they made a decision. They agreed to put a tax on wine and other goods. This money would help pay for the King's military efforts. It is said that Sir Henry Redford was very happy with this outcome. He even invited members from both houses of Parliament to have dinner with him.

Later Years and Legacy

After his time as Speaker, Sir Henry Redford continued to be involved in politics. In 1403, he attended more meetings of the Privy Council. He represented Lincolnshire in Parliament again in 1404. He also served as Sheriff of Lincolnshire for a fourth and final time in 1406.

Sir Henry Redford passed away around 1409. He had married Katherine by Easter 1385. Katherine was the widow of Sir Ralph Paynell. They had one son, also named Henry. This son later faced trouble for supporting the Yorkist side during a conflict.

Arms of Henry Redford

Escutcheon Argent fretty Sable a chief of the second.