John Harrison (died 1669) facts for kids
Sir John Harrison (born around 1590 – died 28 September 1669) lived at Balls Park in Hertfordshire, England. He was an English politician who served in the House of Commons at different times between 1640 and 1669. During the English Civil War, he was a strong supporter of the king, Charles I, and the Royalist side.
Contents
Sir John's Public Life
Early Career and Parliament
John Harrison was born in Lancaster. He was the twelfth son of a yeoman, which meant his family owned and farmed their own land. In 1611, when he was 22, he moved to London.
He became one of the first people to suggest having a "commissioner of the customs." This job involved collecting taxes on goods coming into or leaving the country. He was then given this important role himself.
In 1628, Harrison was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Scarborough. An MP is a person elected to represent an area in the House of Commons, where laws are made.
Serving in Parliament
In April 1640, he was elected as an MP for Lancaster in what was called the Short Parliament. This Parliament didn't last very long.
Later that same year, in November 1640, he was elected again for Lancaster to serve in the Long Parliament. This Parliament lasted for many years.
Between 1637 and 1640, Sir John built a large house called Balls Park House in Hertford. In 1641, he was given the title of "Knight" by the king.
Support for the King
Sir John Harrison strongly supported King Charles I during the English Civil War. Because of his loyalty to the king, he was removed from Parliament in September 1643. He faced difficulties for his support, including having to pay a large fine of £10,745.
After the king's power was brought back during the Restoration, Harrison was elected as an MP for Lancaster once more in 1661. This Parliament was known as the Cavalier Parliament. He continued to serve as an MP until he passed away in 1669. From 1664 until his death, he also served as a "gentleman of the Privy Chamber," which was a special role close to the king.
Sir John's Family Life
Family and Descendants
Sir John Harrison died at the age of 80 at his home, Balls Park, in Hertford. He was buried at All Saints' Church, Hertford.
He was married twice. His first wife was Margaret Fanshawe. They had three sons, who all died before him, and two daughters. His elder daughter from this marriage, Ann, married Sir Richard Fanshawe, 1st Baronet. Sir Richard was an important ambassador to Spain.
His second wife was Mary Shotbolt. They had one son and one daughter. Sir John was survived by his three daughters and his youngest son, Richard Harrison (1646–1726). Richard was the only son from his second marriage and inherited Balls Park. He also became an MP for Lancaster, just like his father.
Some of Sir John Harrison's later family members included important figures like Charles Townshend, 3rd Viscount Townshend and George Townshend, 1st Marquess Townshend.
