Jane Ratcliffe facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Jane Ratcliffe
Born	1500s
Died	17 August 1638  London

Jane Ratcliffe (who was born Jane Brereton) lived a very religious life in the 1600s. After she passed away in 1638, a clergyman named John Ley wrote a book about her. He called it "A Patterne of Pietie," which means "A Model of Goodness." This book shared her story as an example of how to live a life full of faith and kindness.

Jane Ratcliffe's Life Story

Jane's exact birth year is not known. We do know that her father, John Brerewood, passed away in 1599. Her family was from Chester, a city in England.

Her Family Connections

Jane had a younger brother named Robert, who was born in 1588. Robert grew up to become a respected judge and was even knighted, becoming Sir Robert Brerewood. Her uncle, Edward Brerewood, was also a well-known scholar. He worked as a professor at Gresham College, which was a famous place for learning at the time.

Marriage and Faith

Jane married John Ratcliffe as his second wife. His first wife had died in 1602. Around 1610, Jane went through a difficult time. This led her to seek guidance from a leading clergyman named Nicholas Byfield. From that point on, Jane dedicated herself to living a very religious and devoted life.

Meanwhile, her husband, John Ratcliffe, was an important person in their community. He served as the Mayor of Chester from 1611 to 1612. This was a significant role, as the mayor was the main leader of the city.

Her Legacy and Book

Jane Ratcliffe passed away in London in 1638. Two years later, in 1640, the clergyman John Ley published his book about her. The book was titled A Patterne of Pietie, or the Religious life and death of that grave and gracious Matron, Mrs. Jane Ratcliffe, Widow, and Citizen of Chester.

In this book, Ley described Jane's life as a model of faith and good deeds. He dedicated the book to two important women of the time: Brilliana, Lady Harley and Alice, Lady Lucy. This shows that Jane's life was seen as inspiring by many people.