Richard Wenman, 1st Viscount Wenman facts for kids
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Richard Wenman (1573–1640) was an important English soldier and politician. He was known as the 1st Viscount Wenman. He served in the House of Commons, which is like a parliament, between 1621 and 1625. In 1628, he received the special title of Viscount Wenman in the Peerage of Ireland.
Early Life and Military Service
Richard Wenman was born in 1573. His father was Thomas Wenman from Thame Park, Oxfordshire. His mother was Jane West. Richard went to the University of Oxford when he was young.
He became a volunteer soldier and showed great bravery. In 1596, he helped capture the city of Cadiz in Spain. For his courage, he was made a knight by Robert Devereux, 2nd Earl of Essex, right there in Cadiz.
Political Career
Richard Wenman became a Member of Parliament for Oxfordshire in 1620. He was elected again in 1625. Being a Member of Parliament meant he helped make laws for England.
In 1627, he was chosen to be the High Sheriff of Oxfordshire. This was an important local role, like a chief law enforcement officer for the county.
A year later, in 1628, he received two special titles: Baron Wenman of Kilmainham, County Meath, and Viscount Wenman of Tuam. These titles were given to him by official letters from the King.
Richard Wenman also supported artists. He was a patron of the poet William Basse. Basse dedicated some of his poems to Wenman, calling him a "modern Maecenas." A Maecenas was a famous Roman who supported arts and culture.
Death
Richard Wenman passed away on 3 April 1640. He was buried in Twyford a few days later.
Family Life
Richard Wenman was married four times. His first wife was Agnes Fermor. They had two sons who lived, Thomas Wenman, 2nd Viscount Wenman and Philip. Philip later became the third viscount. They also had four daughters.
After Agnes passed away, Richard married Alice Chamberlayne in 1618. His third wife, Elizabeth, was buried in Twyford in 1629. His fourth wife was Mary Keble, who was buried in Twyford in 1638.
