Nicholas L'Estrange facts for kids
Sir Nicholas le Strange (born 1511 – died 1580) was an important English politician from Hunstanton, Norfolk. He served as a Member of Parliament (MP) several times during his life.
Nicholas was the oldest son of Sir Thomas Le Strange. When his father passed away in 1545, Nicholas took over the family's responsibilities. He became a knight in 1547, which was a special honor. His mother, Anne, was related to some important people. She was the daughter of Nicholas Vaux. This also made Nicholas a cousin to Catherine Parr, who was King Henry VIII's sixth wife! Nicholas also had a brother named Richard, who also served as a Member of Parliament.
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His Public Service
Nicholas le Strange held several important jobs in his local area and for the royal family.
Working for the Community
He was a Justice of the Peace for Norfolk for many years. This meant he helped keep law and order in the county. He also served as High Sheriff of Norfolk and Suffolk in 1548–1549. The High Sheriff was a very important local official, responsible for enforcing laws and managing elections.
Serving Important People
In 1546, Nicholas became a steward for the Duchess of Richmond. A steward managed her estates and finances. He also worked as a Chamberlain for the Duke of Norfolk. A Chamberlain was a high-ranking official who managed the household of a noble.
In 1552, Nicholas started working for Princess Elizabeth, who later became Queen Elizabeth I. He was her Chamberlain, helping to manage her household at Hatfield, Hertfordshire.
His Time in Parliament
Nicholas le Strange was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) many times. This meant he represented his local area in the English Parliament, helping to make laws.
Representing Norfolk
He was first elected as an MP for Norfolk County in 1547. Later, he represented King's Lynn in 1555. He also served as an MP for Castle Rising several times: in 1558, 1559, 1563, and 1571. His brother, Richard, also became an MP for areas connected to the Duke of Norfolk.
Later Years
After 1572, Nicholas was no longer elected to Parliament. In 1571, he passed on his family's estates to his oldest son, Hamon. Nicholas then moved to King's Lynn.
Family Life
Nicholas le Strange was married twice. His first wife was Eleanor Fitzwilliam, whom he married in 1528. They had three sons and two daughters together. After Eleanor passed away, he married Katherine Hyde in 1546. Katherine was a widow from Norfolk.
Nicholas le Strange passed away in 1580 and was buried in Sedgeford, Norfolk. His grandson, also named Nicholas, continued the family line. His descendant, Sir Hamon le Strange, also became a Member of Parliament.
