Richard Lewknor (1542–1616) facts for kids
Sir Richard Lewknor (born in 1541 and passed away in 1616) was an important English politician. He lived in a place called Downeley, which is in West Dean, Sussex.
Richard was the son of Edmund Lewknor from Tangmere, Sussex. He also had a brother named Thomas Lewknor, who was also a Member of Parliament. Richard studied law at a famous place called the Middle Temple and became a lawyer there.
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Sir Richard Lewknor's Career
Richard Lewknor had a very successful career in law and politics.
His Role as a Judge
In 1581, he became a "bencher," which is a senior position for a lawyer. Later, in 1594, he became a "sergeant-at-law," an even higher rank. He worked as a judge in different places. From 1588 to 1590, he was the "Recorder of Chichester," which meant he was the main judge for that city.
In 1589, he became a judge on the Chester circuit, which was a special court area. He was promoted to be the Chief Justice of Chester in 1603, and he held this important job until he died. Even though he was a strong Catholic, he was known for being a very fair judge. He was even knighted in 1600, which meant he was given the title "Sir."
Being a Member of Parliament
Sir Richard Lewknor was also chosen to be a Member (MP) for Chichester. He served in the Parliament of England many times: in 1572, 1584, 1586, 1589, 1593, and 1597. As an MP, he worked on many different committees, helping to make laws and decisions for the country.
His Time in Wales
After he became Chief Justice of Chester, Sir Richard moved to Wales. For a short time, he was very important in running the country. This was between 1601, when the previous Lord President of Wales (Henry Herbert, 2nd Earl of Pembroke) passed away, and 1602, when the new Lord President (Lord Zouch) arrived.
Sir Richard Lewknor's Private Life
Sir Richard Lewknor was married two times. From his first marriage, he had two sons. Later, he married Margaret. She was the daughter of Thomas Atkins from London and had been married before to Thomas Hughes and Stephen Hadnall.
In 1589, Sir Richard bought a large estate called the manor of West Dean. This was where he lived.
