Peter Yorke (MP) facts for kids

Peter Yorke (sometimes spelled Peter York) was an important English landowner and politician who lived in the 1500s. He was born around 1542 and passed away by 1589. Peter Yorke came from Gouthwaite, a place in Yorkshire, England.

Peter Yorke's Early Life and Family

Peter Yorke was the son of a well-known man named Sir John Yorke. His mother was Anne Smyth. Peter received a good education for his time. He studied at Peterhouse, Cambridge, which is a famous university college. Later, in 1557, he joined the Middle Temple, a place where people learned about law.

Peter's Marriage and New Home

In 1560, Peter Yorke got married to Elizabeth. She was the daughter of Sir William Ingleby, who lived at Ripley Castle. After they married, Peter and Elizabeth moved to Parcevall Hall. This hall was part of a larger area called the manor of Appletreewick. Peter's father had bought this land in 1549.

Peter Yorke's Inheritance and Wealth

When Peter's father, Sir John Yorke, died in 1568, Peter inherited a lot of land and property. He received large estates that used to belong to Byland Abbey in Nidderdale. His father had bought these lands in 1547. Peter also inherited the Appletreewick manor. This manor was very valuable because it included important mining rights at Greenhow Hill. This meant Peter owned the rights to dig for valuable minerals there.

Peter Yorke's Political Career

Peter Yorke also became involved in politics. He was chosen to be a Member (MP) in the Parliament of England. An MP is like a representative who speaks for the people in a certain area. Peter Yorke represented the town of Ripon in Parliament in 1589.

Peter Yorke's Legacy

Peter Yorke's will, which is a legal document stating what happens to a person's property after they die, was officially approved on July 4, 1589. In his will, Peter left most of his lands and wealth to his oldest son, John.