John Meller facts for kids
Sir John Meller was an English politician who lived a long time ago, from about 1588 to 1649 or 1650. He was known for being a Member of Parliament (MP) and for supporting King Charles I during the English Civil War. He lived at Bridehead House in Little Bredy, Dorset.
Early Life and Education
John Meller was the oldest son of Sir Robert Meller. His mother was Dorothy Bailie. He grew up in Little Bredy, Dorset.
He went to school in Dorchester. Later, he studied at Caius College, Cambridge University. He was about 15 years old when he started there in 1603. After university, he studied law at the Inner Temple in London. He became a knight in 1625.
A Career in Politics
Sir John Meller became a Member of Parliament (MP) in 1628. He represented the area of Wareham. He served until 1629. At that time, King Charles I decided to rule without Parliament for eleven years.
In 1640, Sir John Meller was elected as an MP again. This time, he represented Bridport in a short meeting of Parliament. When the English Civil War began, he chose to support the King. After the war, he paid a fine to the winning side.
He also held important local jobs. He was the High Sheriff of Dorset from 1630 to 1631. Later, he was the High Sheriff of Oxfordshire from 1633 to 1634. A High Sheriff was a very important official who helped keep law and order in a county.
Family Life
Sir John Meller married Mary Swinnerton in 1612. Mary's father, John Swinnerton, had been the Lord Mayor of London. Sir John and Mary had three sons and at least five daughters.
