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Jonathan Trelawny (High Sheriff of Cornwall) facts for kids

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Sir Jonathan Trelawny (1568–1604)
Sir Jonathan Trelawny in 1599
English School Elizabeth Lady Trelawny
Elizabeth Lady Trelawny (née Killigrew)

Sir Jonathan Trelawny (born December 17, 1568 – died June 21, 1604) was an important English politician. He lived in Cornwall, a county in England. Jonathan became a Member of Parliament (MP), which means he was chosen to represent people in the English government. He also held other important jobs in his home county.

Early Life and Family

Jonathan Trelawny was born in 1568. His father, John Trelawny, was a very important person in Cornwall. He was called the High Sheriff of the county. Sadly, Jonathan's father passed away before he was born. Jonathan's older brother died when he was very young. This meant Jonathan inherited his family's estate, a large property called Pool in Menheniot.

A Career in Parliament

Jonathan Trelawny became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Liskeard. He represented this town in Parliament three times. Later, he also represented the whole county of Cornwall in Parliament in 1597 and 1604.

A Heated Debate

Once, during a debate in Parliament, Sir Jonathan lost his temper. He got into an argument with another MP, Mr. Ashe. The argument became very heated. Sir Jonathan was sent to the Tower of London for his actions. This was a serious punishment for a Member of Parliament.

Important Roles in Cornwall

Besides being an MP, Sir Jonathan held several other important positions:

  • He was the High Sheriff of Cornwall in 1595. This role meant he was the chief law enforcement officer in the county.
  • He was knighted in 1597. This meant he received the title "Sir."
  • He was also the Recorder of Liskeard. This was a legal role, like a judge.
  • He was the Steward of the town of West Looe.

Later Life and Passing

In 1600, Sir Jonathan bought a new property called Trelawney in Pelynt. He moved his home there from Pool. This new Trelawney was not the same place his family originally came from many centuries ago.

Sir Jonathan married Elizabeth Killigrew. Her father, Sir Henry Killigrew, was a diplomat. This marriage connected Sir Jonathan to other powerful families, including Sir Robert Cecil. Sir Jonathan used his influence to help Sir Robert Cecil in Parliament.

Sir Jonathan Trelawny passed away on June 21, 1604. He became very ill suddenly while Parliament was meeting. The next day, the House of Commons, where MPs work, was told about his death. They voted to attend his funeral. This was a very special sign of respect for Sir Jonathan.

His Children

Sir Jonathan and Elizabeth had children. Their oldest son was named John (1592–1664). He later received the special title of baronet in 1628. Sir Jonathan also had a second son named Edward. Edward inherited another family property called Coldrenick.

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