James Perrot facts for kids

Sir James Perrot (born 1571 – died 1636) was a Welsh writer and politician. He was a member of the English Parliament several times between 1597 and 1629.

Early Life and Family

Sir James Perrot was the son of Sir John Perrot. He was born at Westmead Mansion in Laugharne, Carmarthenshire. He lived there with his mother, Sybil Jones, and his sister Mary.

Later, he moved to the family home at Haroldston, near Haverfordwest. This move happened sometime after 1597. It was possible because of a long legal fight over his father's estates. This dispute continued until 1619.

Education and Early Career

James Perrot went to Jesus College, Oxford, when he was 14 years old, starting in 1586. He studied there for two years. In 1590, he became a member of Middle Temple, which is a place where lawyers are trained.

In 1597, he was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for Haverfordwest.

His Writings

Sir James Perrot was also a writer. He wrote a book called Discovery of Discontented Minds in 1596. He also wrote The First Part of the Considerations of Humane Conditions in 1600.

Later in his life, around 1630, he wrote Meditations and Prayers on the Lord's Prayer and Ten Commandments.

Political Career and Public Service

From 1601, Sir James Perrot held an important job called Custos Rotulorum of Pembrokeshire. This role involved keeping the county's records. He was knighted in 1603, which meant he received the title "Sir."

When King James I began his rule, Haverfordwest received a special document called a charter. Sir James Perrot was the first person on the list of important town officials, called aldermen.

He was elected as a Member of Parliament for Haverfordwest again in 1604. He was re-elected in 1614 and 1621. In the 1621 Parliament, Perrot spoke out against the idea of Prince Charles marrying Maria Anna, the Spanish princess. This made the King unhappy with him.

Because of this, he was sent to Ireland for a time. He worked there on a special committee. In 1624, he was elected MP for Pembrokeshire. In the same year, he rented the royal mines in Pembrokeshire.

Perrot was elected MP for Haverfordwest two more times, in 1626 and 1628. He also served as a deputy vice-admiral and then vice-admiral. He wanted to stop people from taking things from shipwrecks. He also supported making Milford Haven stronger for defense. He gave money to the Virginia Company, which helped set up colonies in America.

Later Life

Sir James Perrot passed away in 1636. He was buried at St Mary's Church, Haverfordwest.