Richard Digges facts for kids
Richard Digges was an important English lawyer and politician who lived a long time ago, in the late 1500s and early 1600s. He was a Member of Parliament, which means he helped make laws for England, for many years. He also served as the Mayor of Marlborough, a town in England.
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Who Was Richard Digges?
Richard Digges was born to John Digges and Elizabeth Noddall. His family lived in a place called Purton in Wiltshire, England. He became a very respected lawyer and politician during his lifetime.
Early Life and Education
Richard Digges went to Oxford University to study. He earned his first degree, a Bachelor of Arts (BA), on May 27, 1579. After Oxford, he decided to study law. He attended two famous law schools in London: New Inn and then Lincoln's Inn. In 1589, he officially became a lawyer, which is called being "called to the bar."
A Career in Law
Richard Digges quickly started working in important legal roles. In 1590, he was hired by a very powerful government official, Lord Burghley. Digges worked as an "Exchequer surveyor," which meant he helped manage government money and property.
He continued to be a respected member of Lincoln's Inn, one of the Inns of Court where lawyers are trained. He held several important positions there, including:
- Bencher: A senior member who helps run the Inn.
- Autumn Reader (1608): He gave special lectures on law.
- Keeper of the Black Book (1614): He managed important records.
- Treasurer (1616-1617): He looked after the Inn's money.
- Lent Reader (1619): He gave another series of law lectures.
In 1623, he became a "serjeant-at-law," which was a very high rank for a lawyer at that time.
Serving in Parliament
Richard Digges was also very active in politics. In 1597, he was first elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for the town of Marlborough. An MP is someone chosen by the people to represent them and help make laws in the House of Commons.
He was so good at his job that the people of Marlborough kept re-electing him. He served as their MP in every election until 1628. Before 1603, he also worked as a legal advisor for Marlborough. In 1608, he became the Mayor of Marlborough, showing his strong connection to the town.
Later Life and Family
Richard Digges passed away in 1634 and was buried in Marlborough on January 26 of that year.
He was married twice. His first wife was Margaret Gore, and they had one son and two daughters. Later, he married Elizabeth Waldron.
