Michael Molyns (died 1615) facts for kids
Sir Michael Molyns was an important English politician who lived in the 1500s. He was known for his work in government and for representing his local area in the English Parliament. He passed away on May 14, 1615.
Early Life and Education
Michael Molyns was born into a well-known family. His father was William Molyns, who owned Sandhill Manor in Fordingbridge, Hampshire, and Mackney Court in Brightwell-cum-Sotwell, Berkshire (which is now part of Oxfordshire).
He received his education at the Inner Temple starting in 1561. The Inner Temple was a famous place in London where people studied to become lawyers. Around 1592, he was given the special title of "Sir," meaning he was knighted.
Public Service and Political Career
Sir Michael Molyns held several important jobs in his community. He became a Justice of the Peace for Oxfordshire around 1573. A Justice of the Peace was someone who helped keep law and order and settled small legal problems in their local area. He also served as a Justice of the Peace for Berkshire from about 1575 and for Hampshire from around 1592.
He was also chosen to be a High Sheriff. This was a very important role, as the High Sheriff was the main law enforcement officer for a county. Sir Michael was the High Sheriff of Oxfordshire from 1575 to 1576. Later, he served as the High Sheriff of Berkshire from 1583 to 1584.
In 1589, Sir Michael Molyns became a Member (MP) for Wallingford. This meant he was elected to represent his area in the Parliament of England. The Parliament was the main group that made laws for the country.
Family Life
Sir Michael Molyns inherited Mackney Court in 1553. He was married two times during his life. His first wife was Frances, who was the daughter of Sir Anthony Huddleston. Together, they had one son and three daughters.
His second wife was Elizabeth. She was the daughter of a London Alderman named Edward Gilbert. Elizabeth was also the widow of Thomas Colby. Sir Michael Molyns was the grandfather of another important politician, Michael Molyns, who also became a Member of Parliament in 1625.
