Roger Downes facts for kids
Roger Downes was an English lawyer and politician who lived a long time ago, in the 1600s. He was a Member of Parliament (MP) for the town of Wigan. This meant he helped make laws for England.
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Who Was Roger Downes?
Roger Downes was an important person in England during the 1600s. He worked as a lawyer, helping people with legal issues. He was also a politician, which means he was involved in governing the country. He served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for the town of Wigan. This was a big job, as MPs helped decide how England was run.
Early Life and Education
Roger Downes was the son of another Roger Downes, from a place called Shrigley in Cheshire. To become a lawyer, he studied at special schools. First, he went to Staple Inn. Then, in 1589, he moved to Gray's Inn. These were places where people learned about law. He finished his studies and became a lawyer in 1599.
A Career in Law and Politics
Roger Downes started his political career in 1601. He was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Wigan. This was his first time serving in the House of Commons, which is where MPs meet.
He also continued his work in law. In 1615, he was a "summer reader" for Gray's Inn. This was a special role where he would teach other students. In 1621, he was elected MP for Wigan again. He served until 1622. Later, in 1624, he became the "dean of the chapel" at Gray's Inn. In 1625, he was the "vice-chamberlain" of Cheshire. This was an important local government job. By 1628, he was the "treasurer" of Gray's Inn, managing its money.
Roger Downes passed away in 1638. He was buried in Wigan on July 6.
His Home: Wardley Hall
Around the time he first became an MP, Roger Downes bought a special house called Wardley Hall. This was a large, old house with a moat around it, like a small castle. It even had its own private chapel and twenty bedrooms!
Family Life
Roger Downes was married twice. His first wife was Elizabeth Gerard. They got married in Wigan in 1601. They had a son, but sadly, he passed away in 1602.
His second wife was Anne Calvert. They had two sons and one daughter together. Anne was a Catholic. Their second son, Francis Downes, also became an MP for Wigan later on. He chose to become a Catholic, too.
Images for kids
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Wardley Hall, Roger Downes's home
