Michael Heneage facts for kids

Michael Heneage (born 1540, died 1600) was an important English politician and a person who loved studying old things, called an antiquary. He was chosen to represent different areas in the English Parliament, including Arundel, East Grinstead, Tavistock, and Wigan.

Life of Michael Heneage

Early Life and Education

Michael Heneage was the younger brother of a well-known person named Thomas Heneage. Michael went to St John's College, Cambridge, a famous university. He became a special member, called a Fellow, of the college in 1563. Before that, he earned his first degree (B.A.) in 1562–63 and his master's degree (M.A.) in 1566.

His Political Career

Michael Heneage was elected as a Member of Parliament (M.P.) several times. An M.P. is someone chosen by the people to represent them in the government. He represented Arundel in 1571. Later, he was chosen for East Grinstead in 1572. He also served as M.P. for Tavistock in 1588–89 and for Wigan in 1592–93.

Around 1578, Michael and his brother Thomas were given an important job. They became keepers of the records at the Tower of London. This meant they were in charge of keeping very old and important historical documents safe.

Family and Later Years

For many years, Michael Heneage lived in London, in a part of the city called St Catharine Coleman. He also owned some land, mostly in a county called Essex.

He got married on August 12, 1577, to Grace Honeywood. She was the daughter of Robert Honeywood from Kent. Michael Heneage passed away on December 30, 1600. His wife, Grace, lived longer than him. Together, they had ten children.

Michael Heneage's Work as an Antiquary

Studying History and Old Documents

Michael Heneage was a member of the Society of Antiquaries. This was a group of people who loved to study history, old objects, and ancient documents. He wrote two important papers that were read to this society. One paper was about the history of family symbols, called 'Arms,' in England. The other was about 'Sterling Money,' which is about the history of English currency. These papers were later printed by a historian named Thomas Hearne.

Michael Heneage also wrote a special handwritten book, called a manuscript. It was titled 'Collections out of various Charters, &c., relating to the Noble Families in England.' This book is now kept in a famous collection of old books called the Cottonian Library.

Helping Other Historians

The University of Cambridge was very thankful to Michael Heneage. He helped Robert Hare, who was putting together all the university's historical records. Michael's help made this big project much easier.

Another historian, Thomas Milles, also thanked Michael Heneage. Michael helped him with his book called 'Catalogue of Honor.' This shows that Michael Heneage was not only a politician but also a dedicated historian who helped others learn about the past.