Lewis Watson, 1st Baron Rockingham facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Lewis Watson
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|---|---|
| Baron Rockingham | |
| Coat of arms |  |
| Reign | Charles I |
| Successor | Edward Watson, 2nd Baron Rockingham |
| Other titles | Baronet of Rockingham Castle |
| Born | Before 14 July 1584 Rockingham Castle |
| Baptised | 14 July 1584 Rockingham church |
| Died | 5 January 1653 (aged 68) |
| Buried | 12 January 1653 Rockingham church |
| Noble family | Watson |
| Spouse(s) |
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| Issue | with Eleanor:
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| Father | Sir Edward Watson |
| Mother | Anne Digby |
| Occupation | politician |
Lewis Watson, the 1st Baron Rockingham, was an important English landowner and politician. He was born before July 14, 1584, and passed away on January 5, 1653. From 1621 to 1624, he served in the House of Commons, which is a part of the British Parliament. He was known as Sir Lewis Watson, 1st Baronet, until 1645. During the English Civil War, he supported the King's side, known as the Royalists. Because of his loyalty, he was given the title of Baron Rockingham in 1645.
Contents
Early Life and Family History
Lewis Watson was the son of Sir Edward Watson, who lived at Rockingham Castle. His mother was Anne Digby. Lewis was baptized in Rockingham on July 14, 1584. He went to Magdalen College, Oxford, in 1599 to study. Later, in 1601, he also studied law at the Middle Temple.
In 1608, he was knighted, which means he was given the title "Sir." When his father passed away in 1617, Lewis took over Rockingham Castle. This castle was originally rented from the King. Lewis later bought the castle and its lands, making them fully his family's property.
Political Career and Titles
Lewis Watson began his political career in 1621. He was elected as a Member of Parliament for Lincoln. This meant he represented the people of Lincoln in the House of Commons. In the same year, he was also given the title of Baronet. This is a special hereditary title, like a knight but passed down through the family.
He was re-elected as an MP for Lincoln in 1624. From 1632 to 1633, he served as the High Sheriff of Northamptonshire. This was an important local role, like a chief officer for the county. In 1633, he gained another special title: "hereditary" Master of the Buckhounds. This was a very old role connected to hunting for the King. In 1638, he became a "verderer" for Rockingham and Brigstock. A verderer was an officer who looked after the royal forests.
Role in the English Civil War
The English Civil War was a major conflict in England. It was fought between those who supported King Charles I (the Royalists) and those who supported Parliament. Lewis Watson was a strong supporter of the King. He actively served the King's cause during this war. As a reward for his loyalty and service, King Charles I made him Baron Rockingham on January 29, 1645. This made him a peer, allowing him to sit in the House of Lords.
Marriages and Children
Lewis Watson was married two times during his life.
First Marriage
His first marriage was in 1609 to Catherine Bertie. She was the daughter of Peregrine Bertie, Baron Willoughby de Eresby. Sadly, Catherine passed away on February 15, 1610, during childbirth. She was buried in Spilsby, Lincolnshire.
Second Marriage and Family
On October 3, 1620, Lewis married Eleanor Manners. Eleanor was the daughter of Sir George Manners. Lewis and Eleanor had six children together. They had one son and five daughters.
- Edward Watson (born 1630) later became the 2nd Baron Rockingham.
- Grace Watson (born 1623) married Sir Edward Barkham.
- Anne Watson (born 1625)
- Frances Watson (born 1626) married Edward Dingley.
- Elizabeth Watson (born 1627)
- Eleanor Watson (born 1629) married Sir Charles Dymock.
Death and Legacy
Lewis Watson passed away on January 5, 1653. He was buried in Rockingham church a week later. His second wife, Eleanor, lived for many more years. She died in London on October 23, 1679. She was also buried with her husband in Rockingham. After Lewis's death, his son, Edward, inherited his title and became the 2nd Baron Rockingham.
Images for kids
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Arms of Watson, of Rockingham Castle: Argent, on a chevron engrailed azure between three martlets sable as many crescents or
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Rockingham Castle, Northamptonshire, seat of the Watson family
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Rockingham Castle, Northamptonshire
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Memorial in St Leonard's Church, Rockingham, erected by Lewis Watson, 1st Baron Rockingham (1584-1653) after the Civil War
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