John Merrick (MP) facts for kids

Sir John Merrick (born 1584, died 1659) was an important English politician and soldier. He was a member of the House of Commons, which is like a part of the government, from 1640 to 1648. He also fought as a soldier for the Parliament's army (often called the Roundheads) during the English Civil War.

Sir John Merrick's Military Adventures

Sir John Merrick was a brave soldier who took part in many important battles. In 1620, he joined a military trip to Flanders, a region in Europe. He continued fighting as a soldier in the Low Countries in 1624 and in Spain in 1625. That same year, he was given the special title of "Sir" (knighted) for his service.

He also fought in the Thirty Years' War, a very big war in Europe, under a famous leader named Gustavus Adolphus. Sir John was even wounded in battle near Maastricht in 1632. Later, in 1639-1640, he led a group of soldiers called a regiment during the Bishops' Wars. When a big rebellion started in Ireland in 1641, the government suggested Sir John should help lead troops there.

Fighting in the English Civil War

When the English Civil War began, Sir John Merrick was given a high rank. He became a Sergeant-Major-General in the Parliament's army, which was led by the Earl of Essex. He was in charge of an infantry regiment (a large group of foot soldiers) called "Sir John Merrick's Foot." This group fought in the important Battle of Edgehill.

After another battle, the Battle of Stratton, Sir John was made the general in charge of the artillery (big cannons). He led the artillery in major battles like the Battles of Gloucester and Newbury.

Sir John Merrick's Political Career

Besides being a soldier, Sir John Merrick was also involved in politics. In April 1640, he was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for the area of Newcastle-under-Lyme. This was for a short time, in what was called the Short Parliament.

He was chosen again as an MP for Newcastle-under-Lyme in November 1640 for the Long Parliament, which lasted much longer. In 1647, he helped with taxes in Pembrokeshire. However, he disagreed with some big changes that happened in 1649, which led him to retire from politics.

Sir John Merrick's Family Life

Sir John Merrick was part of the Meyrick family. He married Alice Fitton, and they had one son and two daughters. Later, he married a widow named Jane Wyche, but they did not have any children together.

Sir John Merrick passed away at the age of 75. There is a painting of him in Bush church, where he is shown wearing black armor. This painting can now be found at Slebech, which is the main home of his family.