John Egerton (died 1614) facts for kids

Sir John Egerton (born 1551, died 1614) was an important English landowner and politician. He was part of the Egerton family. He served in the House of Commons, which is like today's Parliament, many times between 1601 and 1614. He became a very important leader in the areas of Cheshire and Staffordshire.

A Life in Public Service

Early Life and Family Connections

Sir John Egerton was the oldest son of Sir John Egerton and Jane Mostyn. He took over his father's lands in 1591. He also bought more land in Staffordshire from his cousin, Edward Egerton.

In 1599, he was made a knight in Dublin. This was a special honor given by the King or Queen. By 1601, he was a J.P. for Cheshire. This meant he helped keep law and order in the area. He was also a custos rotulorum, which was a chief record keeper for the county.

Serving in Parliament

Sir John was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Staffordshire in 1601. An MP is someone chosen to represent their area in the House of Commons. He was also in charge of organizing local soldiers in 1601.

He became the high steward of Tamworth in 1602. He was elected MP for Staffordshire again in 1607. In 1614, he was chosen to be an MP for Lichfield. This Parliament was known as the "Addled Parliament." Sadly, Sir John died just a few weeks later.

His family was well-regarded by the King. His cousin, Thomas Egerton, 1st Viscount Brackley, was a very important person at Court. Sir John's loyalty to the Crown was never doubted.

Family Life

Sir John Egerton married twice. His first wife was Margaret Stanley. She was the sister of Sir William Stanley. Sir John and Margaret had five sons and six daughters. Most of their children grew up to be adults. Margaret likely passed away in 1595.

After 1598, Sir John married Anne Trappes. She was a wealthy widow who owned a house in London.

His son, Roland Egerton, later became a baronet. Roland faced some legal challenges after his father's death. This was mainly about his father's will, which left a large part of the family's wealth to his cousin, Edward Egerton.

One of Sir John's younger sons, John, died in 1610. This happened during a disagreement with another family. Sir John worked hard to get justice for his son. His powerful cousin, Lord Chancellor Brackley, helped him.

Another son, Peter, married Margaret Hayes. Her father, Sir Thomas Hayes, was a very important person in London. He was the Sheriff of London and later the Lord Mayor of London.

Sir John's stepdaughter, Ursula Trappes, married Lewis Prowde. He was a well-known judge and politician. Sir John was made an honorary member of Lincoln's Inn in 1602 because of Lewis Prowde's request. Sir John was sometimes called "black Sir John."

Sir John Egerton died at his home in Bassinghall Street in the City of London. He was about 62 years old.