Richard Drake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Richard Drake
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| Born | 1535 |
| Died | 11 July 1603 |
| Spouse(s) | Ursula Stafford |
| Children | 1 |
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Richard Drake (born 1535 – died 11 July 1603) was an important person in the court of Queen Elizabeth I. He worked closely with the Queen. He was also a Member of Parliament, which means he helped make laws for the country. He also served as a local judge.
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Who Was Richard Drake?
Richard Drake was born in 1535. He came from a family in Devonshire, England. He was the third son of John Drake and Amy Grenville. He had two older brothers, Sir Bernard Drake and Robert Drake.
Working for the Queen
Richard Drake had several important jobs for Queen Elizabeth I. By 1577, he was an equerry of the stable. This meant he was in charge of the Queen's horses and stables. Later, in 1584, he became a Groom of the Privy Chamber. This was a very close and trusted position. It meant he was a personal attendant to the Queen.
Because he worked at court, Drake needed a home near London. In 1583, he rented a place called Esher Place from Charles, Lord Howard of Effingham.
Important Roles in Government
Besides working for the Queen, Richard Drake also held public offices. In 1572, he became a Member of Parliament for Morpeth. He was elected again in 1584 for Castle Rising. As a Member of Parliament, he helped create laws for England.
Around 1591, he became a Justice of the Peace for Surrey. This meant he was a local judge. He helped keep law and order in his area.
Gifts from the Queen
Richard Drake was very well-liked by Queen Elizabeth I. She gave him many valuable gifts. These included gold and silver that came from the Spanish Armada. The Spanish Armada was a large fleet of ships sent by Spain to invade England.
The Queen also gave him a special right to make a drink called aqua vitae. This was like a strong alcoholic spirit. Around 1602, the Queen also gave him money that was still owed to her from Sir Francis Drake's famous voyage in 1585–86.
Richard Drake and the Spanish Armada
Richard Drake also worked with Sir Francis Drake, who was a famous explorer and naval officer. They might have been distantly related. Richard Drake helped manage the Spanish prisoners captured during the Spanish Armada battle in 1588.
One important prisoner was the Spanish vice-admiral, Don Pedro de Valdez. Richard Drake kept him at his home, Esher Place, while they arranged for his release. This release involved a payment, called a ransom.
His Later Life and Family
Richard Drake passed away on 11 July 1603. He was married to Ursula Stafford. They had one son named Francis Drake. In his will, Richard Drake asked to be buried in Esher church. He left most of his property, including Esher Place, to his son, Francis.
