Roger Twysden facts for kids

Sir Roger Twysden, 2nd Baronet (born August 21, 1597 – died June 27, 1672) was an important English historian and politician. He lived at Roydon Hall near East Peckham in Kent, England. Sir Roger was a member of the House of Commons, which is like a part of today's Parliament, at different times between 1625 and 1640.

Early Life and Education

Roger Twysden was the son of Sir William Twysden, 1st Baronet and his wife, Anne Finch. His father, Sir William, was a well-known figure at the court of King James I. He was also one of the very first people to be given the title of baronet. Roger's mother, Anne, was a writer.

Roger Twysden received a good education. He went to St Paul's School in London. Later, he studied at Emmanuel College, Cambridge and then at Gray's Inn, which is a place where people learn to become lawyers.

After his studies, Roger spent several years at his family home, Roydon Hall. He enjoyed working on the estate, building and planting. But he also spent a lot of time studying old historical records and the laws of the country's government. He was also interested in nature.

A Politician and His Beliefs

In 1625, Roger Twysden was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for Winchelsea. He was elected again for Winchelsea in 1626. When his father passed away in 1629, Roger became the 2nd Baronet. He also made sure his mother's writings were published.

Sir Roger was a strong believer in people's rights. He famously refused to pay a tax called "ship money". This tax was very unpopular because many people felt the king was asking for it unfairly.

In April 1640, he was elected as an MP for Kent in what was called the Short Parliament. However, he soon became unhappy with how things were going. He supported the Parliament when it tried to limit the king's power. But he became worried when Parliament started to challenge the Church.

Challenges During the English Civil War

The English Civil War was a difficult time for England. Sir Roger was concerned by some of Parliament's actions, like the punishment of Lord Strafford. He saw this as an unfair use of power. Sir Roger was one of many who supported the king during this conflict. However, he felt he was too old to fight, so he didn't join the king's army.

In 1642, Sir Roger was arrested after signing a petition from Kent. After he was released, he published a paper called Instructions, which caused more trouble. He was caught trying to leave the country and was put in prison again. In 1643, his properties were taken over by the government.

After King Charles I was executed, Sir Roger returned to Kent. But his strong belief in the law meant he couldn't stay quiet for long. He soon got into trouble again for another protest. He was arrested and held in a public house in London. He was eventually released, but he was advised to stay in London and not return to Roydon Hall.

Sir Roger followed this advice and spent his time reading and studying. He tried to escape England in disguise but was caught. He then faced many problems because he had supported the king. His rents were taken, he had to pay fines, and he was even imprisoned in the Tower of London. He found comfort in his books during this time.

Finally, in 1650, he reached an agreement and was allowed to go home. He lived quietly until the king was restored to power. After that, he returned to his role as a magistrate (a type of judge) and was made a Deputy Lieutenant for the county. However, he never fully agreed with the new government.

Sir Roger Twysden passed away on June 27, 1672, and was buried in Peckham. You can find memorials to his family in St Michael's church in East Peckham.

His Important Writings

Sir Roger Twysden is remembered for three important books:

• The Commoners Liberty (published in 1648)
• Historiae Anglicanae Scriptores X (published in 1652). This was a very important book about English history from the Middle Ages.
• An Historical Vindication of the Church of England (published in 1657)

The Scriptores Decem (which means "Ten Writers") was a collection of works by ten different historians from the past.

His Family Life

Sir Roger Twysden married Isabella Saunders. Isabella was a diarist, meaning she kept a detailed journal, and she had also been a lady-in-waiting to Roger's mother. Isabella's father was Sir Nicholas Saunders.

Isabella was known for her great patience and wisdom, especially during the difficult times her husband faced, like his imprisonment. She passed away in March 1657. Their son, William (1635–1697), became the 3rd Baronet after Sir Roger's death.

Images for kids

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  St. Michael's Church, East Peckham, Kent, which contains memorials to several members of the Twysden family