Kenelm Digby (Rutland MP) facts for kids
Kenelm Digby was an important English politician who lived a long time ago. He was born in Stoke Dry, a place in Rutland, England. He passed away on April 21, 1590.
Kenelm was the oldest son of Sir Everard Digby. He went to college at Brasenose College, Oxford, and also studied law. He became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Stamford in 1539. He also served as the Sheriff of Rutland in 1541.
It's good to know that there was another famous person named Kenelm Digby later on. This was his grandson, Sir Kenelm Digby (1603–1665). They both had fathers named Everard Digby, which can be a bit confusing!
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Kenelm Digby's Political Life
Kenelm Digby had a long and active career in politics. He held several important jobs during his lifetime.
Becoming an MP and Sheriff
In 1539, Kenelm Digby was first chosen to be an MP for Stamford. An MP is someone who represents a specific area in the country's parliament. They help make laws and decisions for the nation.
Then, in 1541, he was appointed as the Sheriff of Rutland. A sheriff was a very important official in a county. They were responsible for keeping the peace and making sure laws were followed.
Serving Rutland in Parliament
Kenelm Digby was elected as an MP for Rutland many times. He represented his home county in parliament for several years.
He was elected in 1545, 1547, and twice in 1553. He also served as an MP in 1555, 1558, 1559, 1571, 1572, and 1584. This shows he was a trusted and respected leader in his community.
More Time as Sheriff
Besides being an MP, Kenelm Digby served as Sheriff of Rutland six more times. He was sheriff in 1549, 1553, 1561, 1567, 1575, and 1585.
He also held the important role of custos rotulorum for Rutland. This means he was the chief keeper of the county's records. He held this position from around 1559 until he passed away.
Kenelm Digby's Family Life
Kenelm Digby married Anne Cope. She was the daughter of Sir Anthony Cope. Together, they had a large family.
They had three sons and six daughters. Some of their children included Everard, Anthony, and John Digby. One of their daughters, Anne Digby, married Sir Edward Watson.
Kenelm Digby passed away on April 21, 1590. He was buried in the church at Stoke Dry. You can still see his tomb there today. It is made of alabaster and shows statues of Kenelm and his wife lying down. There are also smaller figures of mourners carved on the sides of the tomb.
