John Harington (died 1553) facts for kids

Sir John Harington (born around 1499 – died 25 August 1553) was an important English politician from Exton, Rutland. He held many significant jobs during his life, serving kings Henry VIII and Edward VI.

Sir John Harington's Public Roles

Sir John Harington was the oldest son of Sir John Harington of Exton. He took over his father's estate in 1524. He was a Justice of the Peace for Rutland and Lincolnshire. This meant he helped keep law and order in those areas. He also had other important jobs, like being a Bailiff of Leicester and an Esquire of the Body. An Esquire of the Body was a personal attendant to the King.

Serving as High Sheriff

Sir John served as High Sheriff of Rutland several times. He held this role from 1520 to 1521, 1533 to 1534, 1540 to 1541, and again from 1552 until his death. A High Sheriff was a very important local official. They were responsible for keeping the peace and enforcing the law in their county. He was also High Sheriff for Warwickshire and Leicestershire from 1532 to 1533. Later, he served as High Sheriff for Lincolnshire from 1537 to 1538.

Member of Parliament

Sir John Harington was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Rutland. He served in the Parliament of England in 1529, 1539, and 1542. As an MP, he helped make laws for the country.

Treasurer and Military Service

In 1542, Sir John was made a knight. This was a special honor given by the King. He then became the treasurer for Thomas Manners, the 1st Earl of Rutland. This was during a military trip to Scotland.

Sir John continued to work as a treasurer for many years. In 1543–1544, he was the treasurer for Charles Brandon, 1st Duke of Suffolk. The Duke was King Henry VIII's main commander in the North of England. Sir John also took part in a military campaign in France in 1544. There, he was the vice-treasurer for the armed forces. After returning from France in 1547, he worked for Henry Manners, the 2nd Earl of Rutland.

Later in his career, there were some questions about money involving one of his servants. The details of these money matters were never fully explained.

Sir John Harington's Family Life

Sir John Harington married Elizabeth. She was the daughter and only heir of Robert Moton of Peckleton, Leicestershire. Together, they had five sons and four daughters. Two of his sons also became Members of Parliament.

His sons were:

• James Harington (born around 1511), who became an MP for Rutland.
• Edmund (born around 1521).
• Robert (born around 1525).
• Edward Harington (born around 1526), who became an MP for Fowey.
• John (born around 1529).

Sir John Harington passed away in London on 28 August 1553. His body was then brought back to Rutland for burial.