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Roger Owen (MP) facts for kids

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Condover Hall (Elizabethan sandstone building in Shropshire)
Condover Hall, a beautiful old house in Shropshire

Sir Roger Owen (born 1573 – died 1617) was an important person in English politics during his time. He served as a Member of Parliament, which means he was chosen by people to represent them in the government. He came from a well-known family in Condover, a place in Shropshire, England. His father, Thomas Owen, built a grand house called Condover Hall for him.

Sir Roger Owen's Early Life and Learning

Roger Owen was born in 1573. He went to Shrewsbury School in 1583, which was a famous school. After that, he studied at Christ Church, Oxford, a well-known university, and earned his degree in 1592.

Becoming a Lawyer

Sir Roger Owen also trained to become a lawyer. He studied law at Lincoln's Inn, one of the best law schools in London, starting in 1589. By 1597, he was officially allowed to work as a lawyer. When his father passed away in 1598, Roger took over the family's property. He was given the special title of "Sir" (knighted) in 1604.

Sir Roger Owen's Public Roles

Sir Roger Owen held several important jobs that helped him serve his community and country.

Working for Justice

From 1601 to 1614, he was a Justice of the Peace for Shropshire. This meant he helped keep law and order in the area and dealt with local legal matters. He was also the High Sheriff of Shropshire for a year, from 1603 to 1604. This was a very important role, as the High Sheriff was the King's main representative in the county.

Government and Parliament

Sir Roger was also part of the Council in the Marches of Wales from 1602 to 1607. This council helped govern the areas near the border between England and Wales.

He was elected as a Member (MP) several times. He represented Shrewsbury in 1597. Later, he represented Shropshire in Parliament in 1601, 1606, and 1614. This shows he was a trusted and respected leader in his region.

Roles at Lincoln's Inn

Besides his work in government, he continued to be involved with Lincoln's Inn, his law school. He became a "bencher" there in 1611, which is a senior position. He then served as the "treasurer" of Lincoln's Inn from 1612 to 1613, managing its money and affairs.

Sir Roger Owen's Family

Sir Roger Owen married a woman named Ursula. She was his step-sister, meaning her mother had married his father after Roger's mother passed away. Ursula's mother was Alice Owen, and her father was William Elkin. Roger and Ursula had two daughters together.

Sir Roger Owen's Passing

Sir Roger Owen passed away in London in 1617. He was buried in Condover, the place where his family lived. He died without leaving a will, which means he didn't write down how he wanted his property to be divided.

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