Richard Blike facts for kids
Richard Blike (born around 1517, died 1557) was an important Welsh politician from New Radnor. He helped make laws and manage his local area during a time when England and Wales were changing a lot.
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Who Was Richard Blike?
Richard Blike, sometimes known as Bleak or Bleck, lived in Wales during the 1500s. He was a public servant who worked for the government. His job was to represent the people of his area and help run things.
His Family Life
Richard Blike was married twice. His first wife was Catharine Dunn. They had one daughter together. Sadly, Catharine passed away before 1544.
Later, Richard married Eleanor Vaughan. She was from a place called Hergest in Herefordshire. With Eleanor, Richard had one son and three daughters.
Richard Blike's Career in Politics
Richard Blike had several important jobs in government. These roles helped him serve his community and the country.
What is an Escheator?
In 1541, Richard Blike became the first escheator for Radnorshire. He was appointed to this job again in 1546. An escheator was a special officer who worked for the King. Their main job was to manage land that went back to the King. This happened if someone died without heirs or broke certain laws. Think of it as a land manager for the crown.
What is a High Sheriff?
Richard also served as the High Sheriff of Radnorshire from 1553 to 1554. The High Sheriff was a very important local official. They were in charge of keeping law and order in the county. They also helped collect taxes and organize elections. It was a big responsibility!
Becoming a Member of Parliament
Richard Blike was also chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) twice. An MP is someone elected to represent the people of their area in the country's main law-making body, called Parliament.
He represented New Radnor Boroughs in 1555. Before that, he represented Radnorshire in 1547. Being an MP meant he helped make decisions and laws for the whole country.
