John Kempe (MP) facts for kids
John Kempe (born around 1610 – died October 5, 1652) was an English politician. He was a member of the English Parliament from 1640 until 1652. He strongly supported the Parliamentarians during the English Civil War.
Early Life and Family
John Kempe was the son of Thomas Kempe and Mary Oglander. His family lived in Beaulieu, England. When John was about 12 years old, his father passed away in 1622. John then inherited the family's land and property. Later, in 1631, he began studying law at Gray's Inn, a famous place for legal training in London.
John Kempe's Time in Parliament
John Kempe became a Member of Parliament (MP) twice. In April 1640, he was chosen to represent Lymington in what was called the Short Parliament. This Parliament didn't last very long.
Later, in 1645, he was elected again. This time, he represented Christchurch in the Long Parliament. This Parliament lasted for many years. John Kempe was a strong supporter of the Parliament's side against King Charles I during the English Civil War. He even helped deliver messages and demands from Parliament to King Charles when the King was held at Carisbrooke Castle.
Later Life and Legacy
John Kempe lived in a place called Buckler's Hard, which was close to Beaulieu. He also had a home in Haywood, near the village of Boldre. He never married. John Kempe passed away in 1652 when he was about 41 years old. He was buried at Boldre Church on October 7, 1652. Inside Boldre Church, you can still see a special statue, called an alabaster bust, of him on the wall. It has a message written in Latin.