Richard Norton of Southwick Park facts for kids

Richard Norton (born 1615, died 1691) was an important English landowner and politician. He lived at Southwick Park. He was a colonel in the army that supported Parliament during the English Civil War. He even led the forces that attacked Basing House for a time. Richard Norton also served as the Governor of Portsmouth, first for Parliament and later for King Charles II after the king returned to power.

Richard Norton's Life and Role

Richard Norton was the son of Sir Daniel Norton and Honor White. His family had lived in areas like Alresford and Southwick for a long time. An ancestor, also named Richard Norton, was even knighted by Queen Elizabeth I.

When he was young, Richard Norton lived at the Manor House of Old Alresford.

Fighting in the Civil War

During the English Civil War, Richard Norton became a Colonel for Parliament. In 1643, he led soldiers to protect Warblington Castle. However, a Royalist army soon took over the castle, but Norton managed to escape. Parliament also made him the Sheriff of Hampshire for 1643–44.

Norton was known for his bravery. In the Battle of Cheriton, he used his knowledge of the local area to lead his horse soldiers through hidden paths. They surprised the enemy from behind, which helped Parliament win the battle.

He worked closely with important leaders like the Earl of Manchester and Oliver Cromwell. Cromwell even called him "Dear Dick" in letters, showing they were good friends. People like Clarendon, a famous historian, described Norton as "a man of spirit and of the greatest fortune."

Becoming a Member of Parliament

In 1645, Colonel Norton became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Hampshire. This meant he helped make laws for the country.

In 1647, he was made Governor of Portsmouth again. He was paid for this important job and also became Captain of Southsea Castle. In 1653, he was part of the Barebones Parliament and joined the Council of State, a group that helped run the country.

He continued to be elected as an MP for Hampshire in 1654 and 1656.

After the King's Return

In 1660, Richard Norton was elected MP for Hampshire once more. This Parliament invited King Charles II to return to England after years of civil war. Right after the king came back, Colonel Norton was again made "Captain of the Town, Isle and Castle of Portsmouth."

He was then elected MP for Portsmouth in the Cavalier Parliament. He continued to serve as an MP for Hampshire and Portsmouth in various Parliaments until his death.

Richard Norton passed away in 1691. Sadly, a painting of him was lost when a house burned down around 1800.

Family Life

Richard Norton was married twice. His first wife was Anne Earle. They had a son named Daniel Norton. Daniel died before his father, but he had a son, also named Richard Norton. This grandson inherited the Southwick estates.

Richard Norton, the grandson, was also an MP for Hampshire from 1693 to 1705. He married Lady Elizabeth Noel, but they did not have any children. He died in 1732.