Richard Croke (MP) facts for kids

Richard Croke (born in 1625, died on September 14, 1683) was an English lawyer and politician. He was a member of the House of Commons of England, which is like today's Parliament, in 1654. He played an important role in the government and legal system during a busy time in English history.

Who Was Richard Croke?

Richard Croke was born in 1625. His father was Unton Croke from Marston, a place in Oxfordshire, England. His mother was Anne Hore.

Early Life and Education

When Richard was 11 years old, in 1636, he went to Winchester College, a famous school. After that, he started studying law at a place called Inner Temple. This was one of the special schools in London where people learned to become lawyers. He finished his law studies and became a lawyer, or was "called to the Bar," in 1646.

Richard Croke's Career in Law and Politics

Richard Croke had a long and active career in both law and politics. He held many important jobs that helped run the country and its legal system.

Early Public Service

• In 1649, he helped sell Woodstock Manor as a special commissioner.
• By 1653, he became the deputy recorder of Oxford. This meant he helped with legal and administrative tasks for the city.
• He also became a "freeman" of Oxford, which gave him certain rights and privileges in the city.

Serving in Parliament

Richard Croke was elected to the House of Commons of England several times. This was during a period known as the Protectorate, when England was led by Oliver Cromwell.

• First time in Parliament: In 1654, he became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Oxford. He joined the First Protectorate Parliament.
• Justice of the Peace: From 1655 to 1660, he worked as a Justice of the Peace (J.P.) for Oxford. This job involved keeping law and order. He was also a J.P. for Abingdon and Woodstock during this time.
• More Parliament terms: He was elected MP for Oxford again in 1656 for the Second Protectorate Parliament. Then, in 1659, he was re-elected for the Third Protectorate Parliament.
• Other roles: He also served as a commissioner for security and assessment, helping with taxes and safety in Oxfordshire.

After the Protectorate

After the Protectorate ended and the monarchy was restored, Richard Croke continued his public service.

• Recorder of Oxford: In 1660, he became the Recorder of Oxford, a very important legal position for the city, and he held this job until he died.
• Cavalier Parliament: In 1661, he was elected MP for Oxford once more, this time in the Cavalier Parliament.
• Legal and Public Duties: He continued to be a commissioner for assessment, helping with taxes. He also became a "bencher" and "reader" at his Inn, which are important roles within the legal profession.
• Knighted: In 1681, he was made a knight by the King. This happened after he helped write an important document that supported the King's decision to end Parliament for a time.

Family Life

Richard Croke was married to Elizabeth Wright by 1654. Elizabeth was the daughter of Martin Wright, a goldsmith from Oxford. Richard and Elizabeth had five sons together.

Later Life and Death

Richard Croke passed away in 1683 when he was 57 years old. He was buried in Marston, the same place his family was from.