John Astley (courtier) facts for kids
John Astley (born around 1507, died 1595 in Maidstone) was an important English courtier and politician. He worked for the royal family and was a Master of the Jewel Office, which meant he looked after the Queen's valuable jewels and treasures. He also served as a Member of Parliament many times, helping to make laws for the country.
A Life in Royal Service
John Astley had connections to the famous Boleyn family. His mother, Anne Wood, was the sister of Elizabeth Boleyn, Lady Boleyn, who was married to James Boleyn. This made him related to Anne Boleyn, who was Queen of England and mother of Queen Elizabeth I.
In 1545, John Astley married Katherine Champernowne, who later became known as Kat Ashley. At that time, Katherine was the governess to Princess Elizabeth, teaching and looking after her. Through his wife, John Astley became close to Princess Elizabeth's household. He also became friends with Roger Ascham, a famous scholar.
When Queen Mary I ruled England, John Astley left the country for a while. This was a time when many Protestants, like him, faced difficulties. He lived in places like Padua in Italy. When Princess Elizabeth became Queen in 1558, he returned to England.
Soon after Queen Elizabeth I took the throne, John Astley was given an important job. He became the Master of the Jewel House. This meant he was in charge of all the Queen's precious jewels, gold, and silver plate. His wife, Kat Ashley, also received an important role, becoming the chief gentlewoman of the Queen's private rooms.
John Astley received many other honors and properties from the Queen. He was given control over hunting in Enfield Chase and became a manager of the Enfield area. He also owned Allington Castle and Maidstone Palace, where he made improvements to the buildings. He passed away around July 1595, at about 88 years old. He and his wife Margaret were buried in Maidstone church.
Serving in Parliament
John Astley was elected many times to the House of Commons. This is a part of the English Parliament where elected representatives help make laws for the country. He represented different areas, including:
- Chippenham in 1547.
- West Looe in 1553.
- St Albans in 1555.
- Cricklade in 1559.
- Boroughbridge in 1563.
- Lyme Regis in 1571 and 1572.
- Maidstone in 1586 and 1589.
Writing About Horsemanship
John Astley was also an author. He wrote a book about horsemanship, which is the art of riding and training horses. His book was based on what he learned from Italian riding schools. It taught riders how to control a horse using their hands.
His book, titled The Art of Riding, was published in 1584. It was one of the first books in English to explain these riding techniques. He was friends with Thomas Blundeville, another writer who translated important works on horsemanship into English. Astley's book also included ideas from ancient Greek writers like Xenophon.
His Family Life
John Astley had two wives. His first wife was Katherine Champernowne, but they did not have any children together.
His second wife was Margaret, who was the daughter of Thomas Lord Grey. With Margaret, John Astley had a son named Sir John Astley, who also became an important figure. They also had two other sons and three daughters.
