Robert Parkhurst (died 1651) facts for kids

Sir Robert Parkhurst (born 1603, died 1651) was an important English politician. He served in the House of Commons, which is like a part of today's Parliament. He was a strong supporter of the Parliament's side, known as the Roundheads, during the English Civil War.

Sir Robert Parkhurst: A Parliament Supporter

Sir Robert Parkhurst was a key figure in English politics during a very busy time. He helped shape laws and decisions in the country. His life saw big changes, including a civil war.

Early Life and Family

Robert Parkhurst was born in 1603. His father was also named Sir Robert Parkhurst. His father was a very important person, serving as the Lord Mayor of London. The Lord Mayor is the head of the city government in London. Robert's mother was Eleanor Babington. He was baptized in London on July 5, 1603.

When his father passed away in 1636, Robert inherited family lands, including the Pyrford estate. He was made a knight in Dublin on April 29, 1638.

Joining Parliament

In 1625, Robert Parkhurst was chosen to be a member of parliament (MP) for the town of Guildford. An MP is a person elected to represent their area in Parliament. He was re-elected for Guildford in 1626 and again in 1628. He served as an MP until 1629. At that time, King Charles I decided to rule England without Parliament for eleven years.

Supporting Parliament in Tough Times

Parliament was called back in April 1640, for what was known as the Short Parliament. Robert Parkhurst was again elected as the MP for Guildford. Later that year, in November 1640, he was elected again for the Long Parliament. This Parliament lasted for many years.

Parkhurst was a Puritan, which meant he followed a strict form of Protestant Christianity. Because of his beliefs, he strongly supported the Parliament's side. This was during the time leading up to and during the English Civil War. The Parliamentarians, or Roundheads, fought against the King's supporters.

Later Life and Legacy

Sir Robert Parkhurst died when he was 48 years old. He was buried in Guildford on August 21, 1651.

He was married twice. His first wife was Elizabeth Baker. Later, on June 6, 1642, he married Silence Crewe. She was the daughter of Thomas Crewe. Sir Robert Parkhurst had two sons who also became Members of Parliament: Robert and John.