John Claypole of Northborough facts for kids

John Claypole was an English politician who was a member of the Parliament in 1654. He sided with the Parliamentary group during the English Civil War.

Who Was John Claypole?

John Claypole was born in Northamptonshire, England. His father was Adam Claypole, and his mother was Dorothy Wingfield. His family lived at Lolham Hall in Maxey. People spelled his name in many different ways, like Cleypole, Clappoole, and Claypole.

Early Life and Politics

In 1637, John Claypole had some trouble with the law. He was asked to appear before a special court because he refused to pay a tax called "ship money." This was a tax that the King wanted people to pay.

When the English Civil War began in 1643, John Claypole chose to support Parliament. This was a big decision, as it meant going against the King. In 1644, he was chosen to help collect taxes for Parliament in his home county of Northampton.

Serving in Parliament

In 1654, John Claypole was elected to be a Member of Parliament for Northamptonshire. This meant he represented his area in the First Protectorate Parliament. He might also have been a local official called the High Sheriff of Northamptonshire in 1655.

In 1657, John Claypole received a special title from the Protector, Oliver Cromwell. He was made a "baronet," which is a title of honor. That same year, he and his son, also named John, worked together to collect taxes in Northamptonshire. To tell them apart, the elder John was called "John Claypole, senior."

Family Life

John Claypole married Mary Angell. Her father was a successful merchant from London. John and Mary had many children, fourteen in total!

One of their sons was also named John (1625–1688). This younger John married one of Oliver Cromwell's daughters. Another son, James (1634–1687), became a merchant. He moved to Pennsylvania in America and became an important person in that new colony.