Thomas Browne (died 1597) facts for kids

Thomas Browne (died 9 February 1597) was an important English politician who lived in Betchworth Castle in Surrey, England. He was known for his work in government and for representing different areas in Parliament.

Who Was Thomas Browne?

Thomas Browne came from a well-known family. His ancestors included Sir Thomas Browne, who worked for King Henry VI. His family was also connected to the Viscounts Montagu and Lord Buckhurst.

His Family Background

Thomas Browne was the oldest son of Henry Browne. His mother was Katherine Shelley. She was the daughter of Sir William Shelley.

Thomas had a sister named Mary Browne. She married Cuthbert Blagden. Thomas also had five half-brothers and two half-sisters from his father's third marriage.

Thomas Browne's Career

Thomas Browne went to St John's College, Cambridge for his education. After college, he began a career in public service.

Working in Government

Thomas Browne held several important jobs in Surrey:

• He became a Justice of the Peace around 1559. This meant he helped keep law and order.
• He was appointed High Sheriff of Surrey in 1570–71. This was a very important local government role.
• He was also High Sheriff of Surrey and Sussex in 1582–83.
• By 1569, he was a deputy lieutenant of Surrey. This role involved helping to organize the local military.
• He was made a knight in 1576, which meant he was called "Sir Thomas Browne."

Serving in Parliament

Thomas Browne was elected to the English Parliament several times. This meant he represented people from different areas:

• He represented Surrey in 1559.
• He represented Wallingford in 1563.
• He represented Arundel in 1571.
• He represented Bletchingley in 1572 and 1586.

He was also involved in the questioning of a translator named Arthur Hall in 1581.

Thomas Browne passed away on 9 February 1597.

Marriages and Children

Thomas Browne was married twice and had children from both marriages.

First Marriage

His first marriage was to Mabel Fitzwilliam before December 1558. Mabel was the oldest daughter of Sir William Fitzwilliam. Thomas and Mabel had three children:

• Sir Matthew Browne: He married Jane Vincent. Sir Matthew died in a challenge in 1603.
• Jane Browne: She married Sir Oliph Leigh.
• Mabel Browne

Second Marriage

Thomas Browne's second wife was Helen or Ellen Harding. She was the daughter of William Harding, a goldsmith from London. Helen had been married before and had children from her first marriage. With Thomas Browne, she had one son:

• Richard Browne