Thomas Chiffinch facts for kids
Thomas Chiffinch (born 1600, died April 6, 1666) was an important person in the court of King Charles II of England. He worked as a page and was a trusted friend of the King.
Life and Work
Early Career
Thomas Chiffinch began his work at the royal court in 1641. Bishop Brian Duppa introduced him to King Charles I. Thomas became a "page of the bedchamber" for the King. This meant he was a personal attendant who helped the King with daily tasks.
In 1644, Thomas Chiffinch received a special honor. He was given a "grant of arms" by Sir Edward Walker. This was a formal recognition of his family's status.
Working with Prince Charles
From 1645, Thomas Chiffinch started working for Prince Charles. This prince would later become King Charles II. Thomas stayed with Prince Charles when he had to leave England in 1646. This was during a time called the Commonwealth. England was not ruled by a king then. Thomas remained with the Prince during his time away from England.
Return to England
In 1660, the King returned to England. This event is known as the Stuart Restoration. Thomas Chiffinch received important jobs. He became the "Surveyor of the King's Pictures." This meant he was in charge of all the King's artwork. He also became the "keeper of the king's jewels."
In 1663, King Charles II gave him another big role. Thomas became the "receiver-general of the revenues." This job involved managing money from royal lands in America and Africa. The King trusted Thomas with important financial matters for the royal household.
Family and Death
Thomas Chiffinch married Dorothy Thanet. She was from a place called Merionethshire. They had one son together.
Thomas Chiffinch passed away on April 6, 1666. His death was noted in the diary of Samuel Pepys. Pepys wrote: "The court full this morning of the newes of Tom Cheffin’s death, the king's closett-keeper." Thomas was buried in Westminster Abbey. After his death, his younger brother, William Chiffinch, took over most of his important jobs.
