Luke Garnons facts for kids

Luke Garnons (died 12 February 1615) was an English merchant and politician. He served in the House of Commons, which is like the main law-making body in England, at different times between 1584 and 1601.

Early Life and Business

Luke Garnons was born in Herefordshire. He was a younger son in his family. He later moved to Gloucester and became a draper, which means he sold cloth and fabrics. He was quite successful and bought many properties in Gloucester.

Garnons was also very interested in the city's trade. He was involved in maritime trade, meaning he helped manage goods that were shipped by sea from Gloucester.

Local Government Roles

Luke Garnons played a big part in the local government of Gloucester.

• In 1566, he became an alderman. An alderman was an important member of the city council.
• He served as sheriff twice, in 1565 and 1569. A sheriff was a chief law enforcement officer in the county or city.
• He was elected Mayor of Gloucester three times: from 1570 to 1571, from 1586 to 1587, and again from 1600 to 1601. Being mayor was the highest position in the city's government. People at the time described him as a "sage and prudent ruler," meaning he was wise and careful in his leadership.

Serving in Parliament

Luke Garnons was also a Member of Parliament (MP) for Gloucester. An MP is someone elected to represent their city or area in the House of Commons, where they help make laws for the country.

First Term as MP

Garnons first served as an MP for Gloucester from 1584 to 1585.

Political Challenges in Gloucester

During his time as mayor in 1586–1587, there was a disagreement in Gloucester about choosing a new recorder (a legal officer). Garnons played a key role in slowing down this appointment for a while.

Gloucester's city government often had different groups with different ideas. One group supported more traditional views, while another group, led by Garnons and John Jones, was more focused on what ordinary citizens wanted. This group tried to encourage more freemen (citizens with certain rights) to vote.

Later Terms as MP

In the 1588 election for Parliament, Garnons and another politician named Thomas Atkyns were chosen as MPs. They were seen as the candidates who best represented the common people. They served until 1589.

Later, in 1597, Garnons was again chosen as an MP for Gloucester, along with William Oldsworth. There were some claims that during this election, many freemen who supported Thomas Atkyns were unfairly prevented from voting.

Family Life

Luke Garnons was married to Ann Hasarde. She was the widow of Edmund Hasarde, who was also a draper in Gloucester. Luke and Ann had two children named Peter and Magdalen.

Death

Luke Garnons died on 12 February 1615.