Henry Shirley, 2nd Baronet facts for kids

Sir Henry Shirley (1589–1633) was an important landowner and local politician in England. He was born in January 1589 in Somerton, Oxfordshire. Henry was the oldest child of Sir George Shirley.

Henry Shirley likely went to Oxford University, though no official records confirm this. After his studies, he traveled to other countries. He then joined the court of Henry, Prince of Wales. In May 1615, he married Lady Dorothy Devereux. She was the daughter of Robert Devereux, 2nd Earl of Essex.

Sir Henry Shirley's Early Life & Family

Who Was Sir Henry Shirley?

Sir Henry Shirley was born into a well-known family. His father, Sir George Shirley, was a Baronet. This was a special title, like a knight, that could be passed down in the family. Henry was the oldest son, so he would inherit his father's lands and title.

Education and Travel

Like many young men from important families, Henry Shirley received a good education. His younger brother, Sir Thomas Shirley, wrote that Henry went to Oxford University. After his time at university, Henry traveled abroad. This was common for young nobles to learn about other cultures. He later joined the royal court, working for Henry, Prince of Wales.

Marriage and Family Life

In 1615, Sir Henry Shirley got married. His wife was Lady Dorothy Devereux. Her father was the Earl of Essex, a very powerful nobleman. This marriage connected Sir Henry to another important family in England.

Sir Henry Shirley's Political Career

Becoming a Local Politician

When his father passed away, Sir Henry Shirley became more involved in local government. He supported the Duke of Buckingham, who was a very powerful figure in the king's court. This support helped Sir Henry gain influence in his local area.

High Sheriff of Leicestershire

In 1624, Sir Henry Shirley was chosen for an important job. He became the High Sheriff of Leicestershire. The High Sheriff was the chief law enforcement officer in the county. They were responsible for keeping the peace and carrying out the king's orders.

Proclaiming King Charles I

The next year, in 1625, a new king came to the throne. This was Charles I of England. Sir Henry Shirley had the important task of reading the official announcement. He read the proclamation of King Charles I's accession in the market square of Leicester. This showed his role in the local government.

Disagreements with the Earl of Huntingdon

Sir Henry Shirley was known for standing up for what he believed in. He often disagreed with the Earl of Huntingdon. The Earl was Leicestershire's lord lieutenant, another very powerful local official. In 1627, a disagreement led to Sir Henry being held under house arrest for a short time. He later made a public apology to resolve the issue.

Later Life and Legacy

Death and Burial

Sir Henry Shirley passed away in February 1633. He was buried in the Shirley family chapel. This chapel is located at Breedon on the Hill in Leicestershire. His brother mentioned that Sir Henry was a Catholic.

His Widow's Remarriage

Two years after Sir Henry's death, his widow, Lady Dorothy, remarried. She married William Stafford in 1635. Their wedding was a Roman Catholic ceremony. It took place in the Queen's chapel at Somerset House.