Lawrence Carter (1641–1710) facts for kids

Lawrence Carter (born around 1641 – died June 1, 1710) was an English lawyer and politician from the town of Leicester. He was an important person who helped his town and served in the English Parliament.

Early Life and Family

Lawrence Carter was born in June 1641. He was the oldest son of Lawrence Carter and Eleanor Pollard. His family, the Carters, were successful farmers in Paulerspury, Northamptonshire. But young Lawrence was meant for a career in law.

He studied at Clement's Inn and trained to be a lawyer with Thomas Wadland in Leicester. Lawrence later married Thomas Wadland's daughter, Elizabeth. They had two sons before Elizabeth passed away in 1671. In 1675, Lawrence married again to Mary Potter from London. With Mary, he had two sons and four daughters.

A Career in Law and Public Service

Lawrence Carter became a trusted advisor for important noblemen, the Earls of Huntingdon and Stamford. When the town of Leicester received a new official document (called a charter) after a legal review, Carter became the town's Recorder. This meant he served as a judge for the town.

He was one of the first people to meet and formally support King James II. From the new king, he received a special official document called a letters patent. This document gave him the right to build a system to bring piped water to Leicester from the River Soar. He completed this important project at a cost of £4,000 in 1685. That was a lot of money back then!

Serving in Parliament

In 1689, Lawrence Carter was chosen to represent the area of Leicester in the English Parliament. No one ran against him, so he was elected without opposition. He served in Parliament for six years.

He returned to represent Leicester again in 1701. He took over the seat from his oldest son, who was also named Lawrence Carter and was also a judge.

Later Life

Lawrence Carter passed away on June 1, 1710, when he was 69 years old. He was buried at the church of St Mary de Castro, Leicester.