Robert Walker (MP) facts for kids

Robert Walker (born around 1597, died 23 August 1673) was an important English businessman and politician. He served in the House of Commons of England, which is like the main law-making group in England, for many years. He was a strong supporter of the King during the English Civil War, which meant he was a Royalist.

Early Life and Career in Exeter

Robert Walker was born in Exeter, England, around 1597. His father, Thomas Walker, was also a merchant in Exeter. A merchant is someone who buys and sells goods for profit.

In 1622, Robert became a Freeman of Exeter. This meant he had special rights and privileges in the city. He held several important jobs in Exeter's local government:

• He was a bailiff from 1626 to 1627. A bailiff helped manage the city's affairs.
• He was a common councilman from 1628 until about 1649. This role involved making decisions for the city.
• He served as receiver from 1633 to 1634, handling the city's money.
• He was sheriff from 1634 to 1635. The sheriff was a key law enforcement officer.

In 1636, Robert Walker became the leader of the merchant adventurers. This was a group of merchants who worked together to trade goods, often overseas. From 1639 to 1640, he held the important position of Mayor of Exeter. The mayor is the head of the city government.

Time in Parliament

Serving in the Short and Long Parliaments

In April 1640, Robert Walker was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Exeter. He served in what was called the Short Parliament. Later that same year, in November 1640, he was re-elected as an MP for the Long Parliament.

During this time, England was heading towards a big conflict. Robert Walker strongly supported King Charles I. When the English Civil War began after 1642, he remained loyal to the King.

Leaving Parliament and the Civil War

Because of his support for the King, Robert Walker stopped attending Parliament meetings. On 6 March 1643, he was removed from his position as an MP. This was because he did not respond to several official requests to appear before the House of Commons.

In April 1646, the city of Exeter, which had been held by the King's supporters, was ready to surrender. Robert Walker was one of the people who helped negotiate this surrender to the Parliament's forces. This happened at Poltimore House.

After the English Civil War

Return to Public Service

After the King was restored to power in 1660, Robert Walker returned to public life. He became a common councilman for Exeter again in June 1660. He also served as a commissioner for assessment for Exeter from August 1660 until he died. This role involved helping to collect taxes.

Re-election to Parliament

On 16 April 1661, Robert Walker was once again elected as an MP for Exeter. He served in the Cavalier Parliament and held this seat until his death in 1673. From 1661 to 1663, he also worked as a commissioner for assessment for Devon. In 1670, he became a Deputy Lieutenant of Exeter, which was another important local position.

Family Life

Robert Walker was married twice. His first wife was Margaret Parkins, the daughter of John Parkins of Dorchester.

On 19 May 1630, he married his second wife, Mary Cotton. She was the daughter of William Cotton, who was a precentor at Exeter Cathedral. A precentor is a person who leads singing in a church. Robert and Mary had a large family with five sons and four daughters.