Humphrey Berisford facts for kids

Humphrey Berisford (who probably died around 1588) was an English man who was put in prison because he strongly believed in the Roman Catholic faith. He died while he was in prison.

Who Was Humphrey Berisford?

Humphrey Berisford was a gentleman from Derbyshire, a county in England. His father was a Protestant, but Humphrey chose to follow the Catholic faith. He studied at a place called Douay for about two years. This was a college where English Catholics could study their faith when it was difficult to do so in England.

Standing Up for His Beliefs

After Humphrey came back from Douay, his father asked him to help with a legal case. During this time, someone who was involved in the lawsuit accused Humphrey of being a "recusant." A recusant was a person who refused to go to the official Church of England services, which was against the law at the time.

When Humphrey's case went to court, the judge questioned him about his beliefs. Humphrey bravely and clearly stated that he was a Catholic. The judge offered him a deal: if he would just agree to go to the Church of England, he would get help with his legal case and be set free.

However, Humphrey completely refused this offer. He would not give up his faith.

His Final Years

Because he refused to change his beliefs, Humphrey Berisford was sent to prison. He stayed there for several years. Historians believe he died in Derby Gaol (Derby Prison) around the year 1588. He is remembered for his strong commitment to his faith, even when it meant losing his freedom and eventually his life.