Sir John Wolstenholme, 1st Baronet facts for kids

Sir John Wolstenholme, 1st Baronet (died 1670) was an English politician. He was a member of the House of Commons in 1640. He supported the King's side, known as the Royalists, during the English Civil War.

Early Life and Family

Sir John Wolstenholme was the son of another important person, also named Sir John Wolstenholme (who died in 1639). His mother was Catherine Fanshaw. Her father was John Fanshawe of Fanshawe Gate Hall.

Sir John followed in his father's footsteps. He became a customs farmer. This meant he collected taxes on goods coming into or leaving the country. King Charles I made him a knight. In 1620, he bought a house called Clay Hall. He bought it from Alice Fanshawe, who was the widow of Christopher Hatton.

Political Career

Sir John Wolstenholme worked with the government on matters related to the Virginia colony. In April 1640, he was chosen to be a Member of Parliament. This means he was a representative for the area of Queenborough. He served in a special meeting of Parliament called the Short Parliament.

Role in the English Civil War

Sir John was a strong supporter of the King during the English Civil War. This group was known as the Royalists. He even sold some of his property and borrowed money to help the King. Because he supported the King, the Parliament later made him pay a large fine. He and his father's business partners had to pay £150,000. This huge amount of money meant he had to sell his lands.

The Civil War was a very difficult time for his family. His son, Henry, was killed during the war. His brother-in-law, Sir Thomas Dallison, also died in the conflict.

After the War

After the King was restored to power, Sir John Wolstenholme became a customs farmer again. He was given permission to collect taxes on goods leaving the Port of London. In 1664, King Charles II honored him. He made Sir John a baronet, which is a special title of honor.

Later Life and Legacy

Sir John Wolstenholme passed away in 1670. He was buried on July 15 at Stanmore in St John's Church. This church was special because his father had built it.

Sir John was married to Ann Dallison. She was from Laughton, Lincolnshire. His son, Thomas, inherited his father's baronet title.