Sir Benjamin Tichborne, 1st Baronet facts for kids
Sir Benjamin Tichborne, 1st Baronet (born around 1542 – died September 6, 1621) was an important English landowner and a trusted helper to the King. He was also a politician who served in the House of Commons, which is like a part of today's Parliament. He was known for his loyalty to the Crown during a time of big changes in England.
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Early Life and Public Service
Benjamin Tichborne was born in Tichborne, Hampshire. His father was Nicholas Tichborne. Benjamin grew up to become a significant figure in his home county.
Serving Hampshire
He held the important role of Sheriff of Hampshire twice. The Sheriff was like the chief law enforcement officer for the county. He served first from 1579 to 1580. Later, he was Sheriff again from 1602 to 1603. During his second time as Sheriff, he had the special duty of announcing that King James I had become the new king in March 1603. This happened in Winchester.
A Member of Parliament
Sir Benjamin was also chosen by the people to represent them in the House of Commons. This is where laws were made. He was a Member of Parliament (MP) for Petersfield in 1588. Later, in 1593, he became an MP for the larger area of Hampshire.
Knighted by the Queen
In 1601, Queen Elizabeth I herself visited Tichborne. She was on her way to Basing. During her visit, she honored Benjamin Tichborne by making him a knight. This meant he could now be called "Sir Benjamin."
Connections to the King
Sir Benjamin Tichborne became a close helper to King James I. He was a Gentleman of the Privy Chamber. This was a special role for someone who was a personal attendant to the King. King James I visited Tichborne several times, showing how much he trusted Sir Benjamin. The King even gave him control over Winchester Castle.
Becoming a Baronet
On March 8, 1621, Sir Benjamin received another special honor. He was made a Baronet. This was a new title created by King James I. It meant he and his family would have a special hereditary title, ranking below a baron but above a knight.
Family and Legacy
Sir Benjamin Tichborne married twice. His first wife, Miss Shelley, did not have any children. He then married Amphillis Weston in 1571. They had four sons and at least three daughters.
His Children
- Sir Richard Tichborne, 2nd Baronet: He inherited his father's title.
- Walter Tichborne: He was also knighted. Walter built a large house called Aldershot Manor House.
- Benjamin Tichborne: He was knighted by King James I in 1618. He fought for the Royalist side in a battle and was said to have hidden in a tree afterward.
- Henry Tichborne: He was knighted and moved to Ireland. He was involved in the Siege of Drogheda in 1641.
- Elizabeth: She married two times.
- Ann: She also married two times.
- Amphilis: She married Sir William Gratwicke.
Sir Benjamin Tichborne passed away on September 6, 1621, when he was in his 80s. He was buried in Tichborne, Hampshire, the place he called home for so many years.
