Sir Charles Wolseley, 2nd Baronet facts for kids

Sir Charles Wolseley, 2nd Baronet (born around 1630 – died 9 October 1714) was an important English politician. He came from Wolseley in Staffordshire. Sir Charles was a member of the House of Commons at different times between 1653 and 1660. He also held high positions during the time England was called the Commonwealth.

Who Was Sir Charles Wolseley?

Sir Charles Wolseley was the oldest son of Sir Robert Wolseley. His father was given the title of baronet by King Charles I in 1628. Sir Charles became the 2nd Baronet on 21 September 1646, after his father passed away.

Sir Charles's Political Career

Sir Charles Wolseley began his political journey in 1653. He joined Parliament as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Oxfordshire. This was during a special Parliament known as the Barebones Parliament.

Later in the same year, when the Protectorate was formed, he was chosen for the Council of State. This was a very important group that helped run the country.

He was then elected as an MP for Staffordshire. He served in both the First and Second Parliaments. In 1658, Cromwell, who was the leader of England at the time, appointed him to a new group called Cromwell's Upper House.

In 1660, Sir Charles represented Stafford in the Convention Parliament. When the monarchy was brought back to England (this was called the Restoration), he received a pardon. After this, he decided to step away from public life. He spent his time writing and publishing many short books about church matters.

Later Life and Burial

In 1685, Sir Charles Wolseley was briefly arrested. People thought he might have been involved in a rebellion led by the Duke of Monmouth. However, he was later released.

Sir Charles Wolseley was buried in Westminster Abbey. Unlike some people from his time, his grave was not disturbed later on. His burial place is described as an earthen grave in the southern part of the Montpensier chapel.

Sir Charles Wolseley's Family

Sir Charles Wolseley married Ann Fiennes. She was the youngest daughter of William, Viscount Saye and Sele and his wife Elizabeth Temple. Sir Charles and Ann had a large family with seven sons and ten daughters.

• Robert Wolseley (died 1697): He was a special envoy to the leader of the Spanish Netherlands. He never married.
• Charles Wolseley: He died without having any children.
• Fiennes Wolseley: He died when he was young.
• Sir William Wolseley, 3rd Baronet (born around 1660–1728): He was the oldest son who lived long enough to take over his father's title.
• Sir Henry Wolseley, 4th Baronet (died 1730)
• Captain Richard Wolseley: He was the father of Sir William Wolseley, 5th Baronet.
• James Wolseley
• Elizabeth: She married Robert Somervile and was the mother of the famous poet William Somervile.
• Mary: She married Richard Edwards.
• Anne: She married John Berry.
• Dorothy
• Bridget
• Penelope: She died when she was young.
• Susan: She married Charles Wedgwood.
• Penelope
• Frances
• Constance