Richard Harrison (Royalist) facts for kids
Sir Richard Harrison (born 1583, died 1655) was an important English politician. He served in the House of Commons, which is like a part of the government, at different times between 1621 and 1640. During the English Civil War, he supported the King's side, known as the Royalists.
Early Life and Family
Richard Harrison was born in 1583. His father, also named Richard Harrison, lived in a place called Hurst in Berkshire. His mother was Elizabeth Anton. When Richard was young, his father passed away in 1587. His mother later married Robert Marsh.
Richard Harrison started studying at St Mary Hall, Oxford when he was 19 years old, in 1603. He inherited family lands and properties in Hurst and Finchampstead from his grand-uncle. In 1621, he was given the special title of a knight.
Political Career
Richard Harrison became a Member of Parliament (MP) in 1621, representing a place called Wootton Bassett. An MP is someone elected to speak for their area in the House of Commons. He was elected again in 1624 and 1628, this time for Berkshire.
He served until 1629. At that time, King Charles I decided to rule England without the help of Parliament for eleven years.
Harrison lived in his large house in Hurst. He was a friend of Archbishop Laud, a very important church leader. Archbishop Laud even mentioned Harrison in his personal diary. In 1636, Harrison held another important local position as the High Sheriff of Berkshire.
English Civil War
In April 1640, Harrison was elected as an MP again, this time for Windsor, during what was called the Short Parliament.
The English Civil War was a big conflict in England between those who supported the King and those who supported Parliament. Sir Richard Harrison and his family were strong supporters of the King. His son, also named Richard, fought for the Royalist side. Because of their support for the King, the family faced difficulties during the war.
Family and Death
Sir Richard Harrison married Frances Garrard. They had two sons and three daughters.
Sir Richard Harrison passed away in 1655 when he was 72 years old. He was buried in the church in Hurst.
