Robert Pye (Royalist) facts for kids
Sir Robert Pye (born 1585, died 1662) was an important person in England's government. He worked for the King and was a politician. He was known for supporting the King's side during the English Civil War.
A Life in Government
Robert Pye was born in Herefordshire. His father was Roger Pye. In 1620, Robert became an important financial officer for King James I. This job was called the Auditor of the Receipt of the Exchequer. It meant he managed the King's money.
He also became a Member of Parliament (MP) several times. An MP is someone who represents people in the government. He was elected for different areas like Bath, Ludgershall, Westminster, and Grampound.
Robert Pye was a strong supporter of the King. Because of this, he lost his job in 1642. This was at the start of the English Civil War. During the war, he used his large home in Faringdon as a fort for the King's soldiers.
Interestingly, his own son, Robert, fought against him. His son supported the Parliamentary side. After the war, when the King was back in power, Robert Pye got his old job back. He worked as the Auditor until he passed away in 1662. He was 77 years old.
His Family
Robert Pye married Mary Croker. They had several children together:
- Robert (around 1620–1701) was his oldest son. He was the one who supported Parliament during the Civil War.
- John (1626–1697) lived in Derbyshire. He was given a special title called a baronet in 1641. This title was for the Pye family of Leckhampstead.
- Mary (active from 1641–1697) was involved in politics. She also supported different religious groups. She married George Speke.
- Anne married Edward Phelips.
Robert Pye's brother, Walter Pye, was also a Member of Parliament.
