Sir Henry Brooke, 1st Baronet facts for kids
Sir Henry Brooke, 1st Baronet (died 1664) was an English soldier and a leader in politics. He is known for supporting the Parliament during the English Civil War. Later, he became the first Baronet of Norton Priory.
Early Life and Family
Henry Brooke was a great-grandson of Richard Brooke. Richard Brooke bought a large estate called Norton Priory in 1545 from King Henry VIII. Henry's father was Sir Richard Brooke of Norton, and his mother was Catherine Neville.
Fighting in the Civil War
When the Civil War began in 1642, Henry Brooke chose to support Parliament. He signed a document called the Cheshire Remonstrance. This made him the only major supporter of Parliament in his local area, the Bucklow Hundred.
In 1643, Henry became a colonel in the Parliament's army. The next year, in 1644, he was made High Sheriff of Cheshire. He held this important job for four years.
Defending Norton Priory
By early 1643, most of Henry Brooke's neighbors were strong supporters of the King, known as Royalists. These included Sir John Savage and Sir Thomas Aston. The Royalist leader in Lancashire was James Stanley.
Henry Brooke had made his home, Norton Priory, ready for an attack. On February 28, 1643, Royalist forces arrived. Even though they had more soldiers, Henry's forces fought them off. The Royalists had to retreat to Halton Castle.
Norton Priory then became a base for Parliament's army. From there, they successfully attacked Warrington in May. The next month, Sir Henry's soldiers surrounded Halton Castle in a siege. After three weeks, the castle gave up. Norton Priory was safe for the rest of the war.
Life After the War
After the Civil War ended, Henry Brooke bought the Manor and Castle of Halton. He became a magistrate in Farnworth. He was also chosen to be a Member of Parliament for Cheshire.
In 1659, he joined other leaders who followed the Presbyterian religion. They supported George Booth in bringing back the monarchy (the King). Henry was put in prison at Chester Castle for this.
However, when King Charles II was restored to the throne, Henry was released. In 1662, King Charles II made him the first Baronet of Norton Priory. This was a special honor.
Henry Brooke married Mary Pusey. His oldest son, Richard, took over after him.
