Thomas Chaplin (MP for Bury St Edmunds) facts for kids
Thomas Chaplin was an English businessman and politician who lived a long time ago, from 1591 to 1672. He was a draper, which means he sold cloth, and he also served in the English Parliament.
Contents
Who Was Thomas Chaplin?
Thomas Chaplin was born in 1591. His father, William Chaplin, was a bailiff in a place called Semer. Thomas learned the business of selling cloth. He became a successful linen-draper in Bury St. Edmunds.
A Man of Strong Beliefs
Thomas Chaplin was a Presbyterian. This was a type of Protestant Christian. He strongly supported the Parliament during the English Civil War. This was a big conflict in England between the King and Parliament.
Serving His Town and Country
Thomas Chaplin was an important person in Bury St. Edmunds. He became an alderman, which is like a city council member, in 1643. He held this job until 1662.
He also had many other important roles:
- In 1643, he helped carry out new laws for Bury.
- He was a commissioner for the eastern association, helping to organize areas that supported Parliament.
- From 1645 to 1652, he helped collect taxes for Bury.
- In 1648, he helped organize the local army in Suffolk.
- From 1650 to 1660, he was a J.P. for Suffolk. This meant he helped keep law and order.
- He was even part of a special high court in 1650.
- He continued to help with taxes and security in the years that followed.
Time in Parliament
In 1659, Thomas Chaplin was elected as a Member of Parliament for Bury St Edmunds. He served in the Third Protectorate Parliament. This was a time when England was not ruled by a king.
He was re-elected in April 1660 for the Convention Parliament. This Parliament helped bring the King back to power. There was a bit of confusion about his election, but he was allowed to take his seat for a short time.
Family and Later Life
Thomas Chaplin married Elizabeth Ignis. Her father, Robert Ignis, was a goldsmith in Bury St. Edmunds. Thomas and Elizabeth had two sons and two daughters.
Thomas Chaplin passed away in 1672. He made his will in April of that year, and it was officially approved in November.
