Sir William Lewis, 1st Baronet facts for kids
Sir William Lewis (born in 1598, died in 1677) was an important person in English history. He was a Baronet, which is a special title. He lived in places like Llangorse in Wales and Bordean House in England. Sir William was a strong supporter of the Parliament during the English Civil War. He was also a Member of Parliament (MP) for many years, serving in the House of Commons from 1640 until his death in 1677.
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About Sir William Lewis
Early Life and Family
William Lewis was the son of Lodowick Lewis and the daughter of William Watkins. He was given the special title of Baronet of Llangorse on 14 September 1628. Before becoming an MP, he served as the High Sheriff of Breconshire in both 1619 and 1636. A High Sheriff was a local official responsible for law and order.
His Time in Parliament
Sir William Lewis was a key figure in the English Parliament during a very important time.
The English Civil War Years
In April 1640, Lewis was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for Petersfield in what was called the Short Parliament. Later that same year, in November 1640, he was re-elected as an MP for Petersfield in the Long Parliament. He stayed in this role until he was removed during an event known as Pride's Purge. This was when some members were forced out of Parliament. During the English Civil War, Sir William supported the Parliament's side against the King. He was even the Parliamentary Governor of Portsmouth from 1642 to 1643, meaning he was in charge of defending that important city for Parliament.
After the War
After the main part of the Civil War, Sir William continued his political career. In March 1660, he was elected as an MP for Breconshire in the Convention Parliament. This Parliament helped to bring the King back to power. In 1661, he was elected again, this time as an MP for Lymington in the Cavalier Parliament. He remained an MP in this Parliament until he passed away.
Later Life and Legacy
Sir William Lewis died when he was 79 years old. He had married Mary, who was the daughter of Robert Calton. Mary was also the widow of Sir Thomas Neale. Sir William had one son, who sadly died before him, and two daughters. Because his son passed away before him and he had no other male heirs, his special title of Baronet ended when he died.]
