Richard Corbet (died 1566) facts for kids
Richard Corbet (born around 1512, died 1566) was an important English landowner and a politician. He served as a representative for Shropshire in the English Parliament during the years 1558 and 1563. This means he helped make laws and decisions for the country.
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Who Was Richard Corbet's Family?
Richard Corbet was the second son in his family. His parents were:
- Sir Robert Corbet (around 1477 – 1513): He was from Moreton Corbet Castle in Shropshire. The Corbet family had lived in Shropshire for many centuries. They were an important family in their local area and in the Welsh Marches, which was the border region with Wales. They were part of the landed gentry, a group of wealthy landowners who often represented Shropshire in the English Parliament.
- Elizabeth Vernon (died 29 March 1563): Her father, Sir Henry Vernon, was the treasurer for Arthur Tudor, who was the Prince of Wales. Elizabeth's mother was Anne Talbot, from the powerful Talbot family. The Talbots owned large estates in western England.
Richard had two brothers and four sisters. His older brother, Roger Corbet, inherited most of their father's property. His younger brother, Reginald Corbet, became a successful lawyer and a judge. Richard's sisters all married into other important local landowning families.
When Sir Robert Corbet died in 1513, he made sure his daughters were well taken care of. He left his estates to Roger. However, Richard and Reginald did not inherit much. This meant they had to find their own ways to build their careers and wealth.
How Did Richard Corbet Start His Career?
Richard Corbet built his career in two main ways: through working at the royal Court and through marriage. He first joined the household of King Henry VIII. Even though he didn't have a very high-ranking job, his connections at court helped him get important opportunities.
In 1538, he received a small lease (a right to use land or property) for a church property. More importantly, after his older brother Roger died in 1538, Richard was given the wardship of his young nephew, Andrew Corbet. This meant Richard became responsible for Andrew and his inheritance. This greatly improved Richard's standing within his family and in society.
In 1544, Richard Corbet served as a standard-bearer during King Henry VIII's last war with France. This was a significant military role. Despite his service, it is not certain if Richard Corbet was ever made a knight. Some historians call him "Sir Richard," but most agree he probably wasn't knighted.
From 1544 to 1547, Richard worked in the household of the Prince of Wales, who later became King Edward VI. During this time, he married Margaret Savile. She was a widow who owned a house in Wortley, Yorkshire, which became one of Richard's homes. When he was in Shropshire, he lived at his mother's home in Poynton. Through his marriage and other purchases, Richard gained a lot of land in Yorkshire. He became an important person in both Shropshire and Yorkshire.
Richard Corbet's Role in Government
Richard Corbet likely supported the Protestant religion early in the English Reformation. This was a time of big changes in the Church of England. When Queen Elizabeth I came to the throne, Richard quickly became a trusted member of important government groups in both his regions.
In December 1558, Queen Elizabeth made him a member of the Council of the North. This council helped govern the northern parts of England. He also joined the Council of Wales and the Marches in 1560. Being a member of both councils was a special honor. In the same year, he was chosen to be High Sheriff of Shropshire. This was an important local position. In 1564, he was described as a "favourer of religion," meaning he was a reliable Protestant.
Richard Corbet was a Member (MP) for Shropshire in 1558 and 1563. Members of Parliament for Shropshire were usually chosen because of their local importance and family connections. There were no close elections for these seats during Queen Elizabeth's reign. When Richard died in 1566, his great-nephew, Robert Corbet, took his place as MP for Shropshire.
When Did Richard Corbet Pass Away?
Richard Corbet died in July 1566. He was buried in St Mary's church in Shawbury. This suggests he died at Poynton, his mother's home, which was nearby. However, his memorial, a large tomb for himself and his wife Margaret, was placed in St Bartholomew's church at Moreton Corbet, close to the castle.
Richard Corbet did not have any children who survived him. His nephew, Sir Andrew Corbet, inherited his property in Shropshire, including the house at Poynton. Richard's estates in Yorkshire went to Francis Wortley, his wife's son from her first marriage. Richard also left small gifts to other nephews and made sure his oldest servants were cared for. He asked his brother Reginald to help his wife Margaret with legal matters.
