Robert Acton facts for kids

Sir Robert Acton (born before 1497 – died 1558) was an important English politician. He lived in places like Elmley Lovett and Ribbesford in Worcestershire, and also in Southwark, Surrey. He was the second son of Richard Acton. He became a knight before 1543.

Sir Robert Acton's Career

Working for the King

Sir Robert Acton started working at the royal court in 1518. He began as a Groom of the Chamber, which meant he helped the King directly. Later, he became a page in 1526. By 1528, he was a Gentleman Usher. This role involved guiding people and managing events at court. In 1539, he became an Esquire of the Body. This was a trusted position, close to the King.

He was also made the Constable of Haverfordwest Castle in Pembrokeshire. This was an important job, lasting for many years.

Serving His Country

Sir Robert Acton was called to help the King in different ways. In 1536, he served against rebels in the north of England. In 1540, he was present for the arrival of Anne of Cleves. She was one of King Henry VIII's wives. In 1544, he fought in a war campaign in France.

He also took over his father-in-law's job as the King's saddler. This meant he was in charge of the King's saddles and horse equipment. In 1532, Acton traveled with King Henry VIII to Calais. He became ill there. He asked for permission to miss a session of Parliament. By 1534, he was back in Parliament.

Political Roles

Sir Robert Acton held many important political jobs. He was a Justice of the Peace for life in Worcestershire from 1537. He also served as a Justice of the Peace in Surrey from 1538. This role meant he helped keep law and order.

He was the High Sheriff of Worcestershire twice. These times were from 1538 to 1539 and from 1545 to 1546. He was also the High Sheriff of Montgomeryshire from 1541 to 1542 and from 1548 to 1549. A High Sheriff was a chief law enforcement officer in a county.

Acton was elected a Member of Parliament for Southwark three times. These elections were in 1529, 1539, and 1542. He was also part of the Council of the Marches of Wales in 1551. This council helped govern the border areas between England and Wales. After King Henry VIII died, Acton continued as a Justice of the Peace. However, he did not take part in many public events.

Sir Robert Acton's Private Life

Sir Robert Acton married Margery. She was the daughter of Nicholas Mayor of Southwark. Margery brought a lot of wealth to the marriage. This included land, money, and a furnished house. They had two sons and one daughter.

Later, there was a disagreement about Margery's inherited money and lands. A court decided that she should receive money each year. After this, Sir Robert Acton managed her inherited lands in a way that caused a disagreement. He left his property to his sons. This was stated in his will, written in 1558. He died a few days later. In his will, he said he was a Protestant. However, two important Roman Catholics were named as executors of his will.

Sir Robert Acton gained a lot of property during his life. This included Ribbesford and the manor of Elmley Lovett in Worcestershire. He also owned Wormington Grange in Gloucestershire. These properties were passed on to his sons after his death.