Jeremiah Tolhurst facts for kids

Jeremiah Tolhurst (1615–1671) was an English tailor, soldier, businessman, and politician. He was a member of the English Parliament at different times between 1654 and 1660. He fought for the Parliament's army, known as the Roundheads, during the English Civil War.

Early Life and Military Career

Jeremiah Tolhurst was born in 1615. His father, Jeremy Tolhurst, was a farmer in Icklesham, Sussex. Jeremiah's mother was Elizabeth Wymond. When his father passed away in 1623, Jeremiah became a tailor.

During the English Civil War, Tolhurst joined the Parliament's army. He first served in a regiment from Kent. Later, he joined the famous New Model Army. He started as a lieutenant, which is a junior officer. By 1644, he became a captain. In 1649, he was promoted to major.

After his military service, Tolhurst moved to the northern parts of England. He started working in business, dealing with coal and salt. He also helped supply Oliver Cromwell's army during their campaign in Scotland.

A Career in Politics

Jeremiah Tolhurst became involved in politics. By 1654, he was a "freeman" of Dumfries. This meant he had special rights in the town. He represented Dumfries Burghs in the First Protectorate Parliament. This was a special Parliament during the time England was a republic.

In 1655, he also became a freeman of Newcastle. He joined a group called the Hostmen's Company. From 1655 to 1660, he served as the deputy governor of Carlisle. He also held other important roles. For example, he was a Justice of the Peace (J.P.) for Cumberland and Northumberland. A J.P. helps keep law and order.

Tolhurst continued his political work. In 1659, he was again chosen to represent Dumfries Burghs. This time it was in the Third Protectorate Parliament. In 1660, he became the governor of Newcastle.

Member of Parliament

In April 1660, Tolhurst was elected as a Member of Parliament for Carlisle. He served in the Convention Parliament. This Parliament helped bring back the king after the Civil War.

After this, Tolhurst continued to hold various government jobs. He worked as a customs official in Newcastle by 1664. In 1669, he was a major in a military company again.

Later Life and Family

Jeremiah Tolhurst moved to the West Indies before July 1671. He passed away in Jamaica just three months later.

Tolhurst was married twice. His first wife was Elizabeth Soule. They married in 1636. Elizabeth inherited three houses in Rye, Sussex, which became part of their family property. They had one daughter. Elizabeth died before 1661. Tolhurst then married again. With his second wife, he had a son and three daughters.