Sir Henry Belasyse, 1st Baronet facts for kids
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Sir Henry Belasyse, 1st Baronet (born 1555, died 1624) was an important English politician. He lived a long time ago, during the reigns of Queen Elizabeth I and King James I. He was known for his work in local government and as a member of Parliament.
Contents
His Family Background
Henry Belasyse was the son of Sir William Bellasis. His family lived at Newburgh Priory in Yorkshire, England. This was a large and important estate.
Education and Early Career
Sir Henry Belasyse studied at Jesus College, Cambridge, which is a famous university. After his father passed away in 1604, Henry took over the family's estates. In 1611, King James I made him a "Baronet of Newborough." A baronet is a special title, like a knight, but it can be passed down through the family.
Working for the Public
Sir Henry Belasyse held several important jobs in his community:
- He was a Justice of the Peace for North Yorkshire for many years. This meant he helped keep law and order in the area. He made sure local rules were followed.
- From 1603 until he died, he was part of the Council of the North. This council helped the King govern the northern parts of England.
- He also served as the Sheriff of Yorkshire from 1603 to 1604. The Sheriff was a very important official. They were responsible for enforcing laws and managing elections in their county.
Member of Parliament
Sir Henry Belasyse was also elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) several times. An MP is a person who represents their local area in the country's main government, called Parliament. He represented two different areas:
- He was an MP for Thirsk in 1586, 1589, and 1593.
- Later, he represented Aldborough from 1597 to 1601.
- He was elected for Thirsk again in 1601.
His Family and Children
Sir Henry Belasyse married Ursula Fairfax. She was the daughter of Sir Thomas Fairfax. Together, they had at least two children:
- Thomas Belasyse (1577–1652) was their son and heir. He later received even higher titles. He became the 1st Baron Fauconberg in 1627. Then, in 1643, he was made the 1st Viscount Fauconberg.
- Dorothy Belasyse was their daughter. She married Conyers Darcy, 7th Baron Darcy de Knayth. Their daughter, Mary Darcy, later married Sir William Lister.
Death and Burial
Sir Henry Belasyse passed away in 1624. He was buried at St Saviour's Church, York. You can still see a special monument dedicated to him in York Minster.
