John Cotton (MP died 1620 or 1621) facts for kids

Sir John Cotton (born around 1543 – died 1620 or 1621) was an important English politician from Landwade, Cambridgeshire. He played a big role in local government and was a member of the English Parliament.

Early Life and Family

Sir John Cotton was the oldest son of another important person named John Cotton. His father was also a Member of Parliament and had served as the Sheriff of Cambridgeshire and Huntingdonshire in 1549 and 1550.

When his father passed away in 1594, John Cotton took over the family's responsibilities. He was later given the special title of "Sir" (knighted) sometime between 1597 and 1601. This was a great honor back then.

His Important Jobs

Sir John Cotton held several key positions that helped him serve his community.

Justice of the Peace

In 1582, he became a Justice of the Peace for Cambridgeshire. A Justice of the Peace was like a local judge. They helped keep law and order, dealt with minor crimes, and made sure local rules were followed.

Custos Rotulorum

From 1600 until his death in 1621 (except for one year in 1617), Sir John was the Custos Rotulorum of Cambridgeshire. This long Latin name means "keeper of the rolls." This person was the chief justice of the peace for the county. They were in charge of all the county's records and documents. He also held this role for the Isle of Ely starting in 1601.

High Sheriff

He was chosen as the High Sheriff of Cambridgeshire and Huntingdonshire for the years 1591 to 1592. The High Sheriff was a very old and important role. They were responsible for enforcing laws, managing elections, and keeping the peace in the county.

Deputy Lieutenant

In 1596, Sir John was also made a Deputy Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire. This role involved helping the Lord Lieutenant, who was the monarch's main representative in the county. Deputy Lieutenants often helped with military matters and maintaining order.

Serving in Parliament

Sir John Cotton was elected to the Parliament of England twice. He represented Cambridgeshire in 1593 and again in 1601. As a Member of Parliament (MP), he would have traveled to London to help make laws and discuss important issues for the country and his local area.

His Family

Sir John Cotton was married three times. His first wife was Elizabeth, the daughter of Thomas Caryll. His second wife was also named Elizabeth, the daughter of Sir Humphrey Bradbourne. His third wife was Anne, the daughter of Sir Richard Hoghton, 1st Baronet.

He had three sons with Anne: James, John, and Katherine. However, only their son John Cotton survived them.