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Sir Edward Carne facts for kids

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Sir Edward Carne (born around 1500 – died January 19, 1561) was an important Welsh scholar, a diplomat who represented England in other countries, and a Member of Parliament. He lived during the exciting time of the Renaissance, a period of great change and new ideas in Europe.

The south west view of Ewenny priory, in the county of Glamorgan
Ewenny Priory, where Sir Edward Carne lived.

Sir Edward Carne's Life

Early Life and Education

Edward Carne was born around the year 1500 in Cowbridge, a town in Glamorgan, Wales. His father was Howell Carne, and his mother was Cicily Kemys. Edward came from an old family, tracing his roots back to Thomas Le Carne.

He went to Oxford University, a famous school in England. There, he became the head of a part of the university called Greek Hall. In 1524, he earned a special degree called a Doctor of Civil Law, which meant he was an expert in legal matters.

Edward Carne married Anne, the daughter of Sir Edward Mansel. They had one son named William and four daughters.

Working for the King

Sir Edward Carne was known for being very smart and a great speaker. Because of these skills, he joined the court of King Henry VIII. In 1530, he was chosen to be a legal expert for an important trip abroad. He worked with the Earl of Wiltshire, who was Anne Boleyn's father.

Carne also gained land and buildings when many monasteries (religious communities) were closed down in Glamorgan. He bought Ewenny Priory and built a house there after 1545. In 1539, he also took over the management of Gaunt's Hospital in Bristol, a place that cared for the poor.

He was even supposed to travel to arrange a marriage for King Henry VIII with Anne of Cleves. This marriage didn't turn out well for the King. While he was preparing for this trip, the money from Gaunt's Hospital was used to support his wife, Anne Denys. However, the local government in Bristol disagreed, and in 1540, they bought the church themselves.

Important Roles and Travel

Sir Edward Carne held several important jobs. He was the High Sheriff of Glamorgan in 1543 and again in 1554. This role meant he was the chief law enforcement officer in the county. From 1540 to 1554, he was a Master of Requests, helping people bring their petitions (requests) directly to the King or Queen. In 1554, he was also elected as a knight of the shire for Glamorgan, which meant he represented his area in the English Parliament.

During the time of Queen Mary I, he traveled as a diplomat to meet with Emperor Charles V and also to Rome. When Queen Elizabeth I came to the throne, Sir Edward Carne decided to stay in Rome. There, he was put in charge of the English hospital of St. Thomas, a place that helped English visitors in the city.

Sir Edward Carne passed away in Rome and is buried in the Church of St. Gregory, a historic church on the Caelian Hill.

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