Robert Honywood (New Romney MP) facts for kids
Sir Robert Honywood (born August 3, 1601 – died April 15, 1686), also spelled Honeywood, was an English politician. He was a member of the House of Commons, which is a part of the English government. He also served on the English Council of State, a powerful group that helped run the country.
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Who Was Sir Robert Honywood?
Sir Robert Honywood was an important person in England during the 1600s. He was involved in politics and worked for the government. He came from a well-known family in Kent.
Early Life and Education
Robert Honywood was the son of Sir Robert Honywood and Alice Barnham. His family lived at Pett's Court in Charing, Kent. Sir Thomas Honywood was his half-brother.
When he was about 17, Robert started studying at Hart Hall, Oxford University in 1618. Later, in 1620, he began to study law at Middle Temple. He was given the title of 'Sir' when he was knighted on June 15, 1625.
A Career in Politics
Robert Honywood spent several years working for Elizabeth Stuart, Queen of Bohemia. She was a queen who lived in exile. Queen Elizabeth called him her "steward," which means he managed her household.
Working for the Queen
His connection to the Queen of Bohemia was important. It helped him later in life. Even though he supported Parliament, he kept good relations with the Queen. This might have protected him when King Charles II returned to power.
Peace Talks and Parliament
In 1659, Robert Honywood was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for New Romney. This was during a time of big changes in England.
During the First English Civil War, he supported Parliament. His wife's family, the Vanes, were strong supporters of Parliament. His brother Thomas also supported Parliament. After Parliament won the war, he served in the government. He was part of the Third Protectorate Parliament. He also served on the Council of State.
In 1659, he was sent with two other important people, Algernon Sidney and Edward Montagu, 1st Earl of Sandwich, to help make peace. They went to negotiate a peace agreement between Sweden and Denmark.
Later Years and Family
After King Charles II returned to the throne, Sir Robert Honywood retired from public life. He spent his later years writing a history book about Venice. This book was published in 1673.
He passed away in 1686 when he was about 85 years old. He left all his property to his wife.
His Family Life
In 1631, Robert Honywood married Frances Vane. She was the daughter of Sir Henry Vane the Elder. Frances passed away in 1688.
They had many children, but sadly, many of them died young. We know that Robert, Charles Ludovic, Elizabeth, and Frances lived to be adults. Only Frances is known to have lived longer than both her parents.
Charles Ludovic married Mary Clement and had several children. One of their children was Sir Philip Honywood. Charles Ludovic died shortly after his father. Elizabeth married John Moore and also had children. She passed away before 1688.
