Roger North, 2nd Baron North facts for kids

Portrait of Roger, 2nd Lord North

Roger North, 2nd Baron North (born 1530 – died 3 December 1600) was an important English nobleman and politician. He worked closely with Elizabeth I, who was the Queen of England at that time.

Roger North's Early Life and Titles

Roger North was the son of Edward North, 1st Baron North. His father was the first person to hold the title of Baron North. Roger took over this title in 1564 after his father passed away.

Working in Parliament

Before becoming a Baron, Roger North was chosen to represent Cambridgeshire in the English Parliament. He served in Parliament in 1555, 1559, and 1563. This meant he helped make decisions for the country.

Important Roles in Cambridgeshire

Roger North also held other important jobs in Cambridgeshire. He might have become the Lord Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire, which meant he was the Queen's main representative in that area. He was also the Custos Rotulorum of Cambridgeshire before 1573. This role meant he was the chief keeper of the county's records.

Treasurer of the Household

In 1596, Roger North was given a very important job: Treasurer of the Household. This meant he was in charge of the Queen's money and expenses for her royal household. He took on this role after Sir Francis Knollys died.

Roger North and Queen Elizabeth I

Roger North had a close relationship with Queen Elizabeth I. They even played card games together!

Playing Cards with the Queen

On August 6, 1576, Roger North played card games like "maw" and Primero with Queen Elizabeth. This shows he was a trusted friend of the Queen.

The Queen's Visit to Kirtling

The Queen even visited Roger North's home at Kirtling. She stayed there for three days, starting on September 1, 1578. This visit was very expensive for Lord North. It cost him £642, which was a huge amount of money back then! He also gave the Queen a special jewel worth £120 as a gift.

Friend of Robert Dudley

Roger North was a personal friend of Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester. Dudley was one of Queen Elizabeth's closest friends and advisors.

Secret Marriage and Expedition

Roger North was present at Robert Dudley's secret marriage to Lettice Knollys, Countess of Essex, in 1578. He also went with Dudley on an important trip to the Netherlands between 1585 and 1587.

Governor of Brill

In 1586, Robert Dudley wanted Roger North to become the governor of Brill, a town in the Netherlands. However, Queen Elizabeth I did not agree to this request.

Roger North's Legacy

Roger North passed away in 1600. His grandson, Dudley North, 3rd Baron North, inherited his title. Dudley was the son of Roger's son, Sir John North.