Sir John Pretyman, 1st Baronet facts for kids
Sir John Pretyman, 1st Baronet (born around 1612 – died 1676) was an important English politician from Loddington, Leicestershire. He lived during a very exciting time in English history, including the English Civil War.
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Early Life and Education
John Pretyman was the oldest son of Sir John Pretyman from Driffield, Gloucestershire. He started his education at Lincoln's Inn in 1629. This was a place where people studied to become lawyers. Later, in 1631, he went to Queens' College, Cambridge University.
A Royalist During the Civil War
Sir John Pretyman was a strong supporter of the King during the First English Civil War. This war was fought between those loyal to King Charles I (called Royalists or Cavaliers) and those who supported Parliament. Sir John was even present when the Royalists captured the town of Cirencester in 1642. Because he supported the King, he faced many financial problems. He even had to sell his family's estate in Driffield.
Public Service and Baronetcy
After the war, Sir John continued to serve his country. He was a Justice of the Peace (a local judge) for Gloucestershire from 1641. Later, he became a Justice of the Peace for Leicestershire from 1660 until he died. He was also chosen as the High Sheriff of Leicestershire for the years 1653 to 1654.
A special honor, called a baronetcy, was given to him. A baronet is someone who has been given a special title by the King, which can be passed down in their family. His baronetcy was created either in 1641 or when the King was restored to power.
Political Career
Sir John Pretyman became a Member of Parliament (MP) for the town of Leicester. He served as an MP from 1661 until 1676, which means he helped make laws for the country for many years.
Family Life
Sir John Pretyman was married two times. His first wife was Elizabeth Turpin, and they had four sons and four daughters. After Elizabeth passed away, he married Theodosia Adams. Sir John was succeeded by his son, George, who also became an MP for Leicester. His daughter Mary married a nobleman named Richard Verney, 11th Baron Willoughby de Broke.
