Thomas Fanshawe (remembrancer of the exchequer) facts for kids
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Thomas Fanshawe (born 1533, died 1601) was an important person in England during the time of Queen Elizabeth I. He was a Member of the English Parliament, which meant he helped make laws for the country. He also had a special job called the Queen's remembrancer of the exchequer, where he kept track of the Queen's money and records.
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Early Life and Education
Thomas Fanshawe was born around 1530 in Derbyshire, England. He was the oldest son of John Fanshawe. Thomas went to Jesus College, Cambridge, a famous university. After that, he became a member of the Middle Temple, which was a place where people studied to become lawyers.
His Important Job
Thomas Fanshawe had a very important job as the Queen's Remembrancer of the Exchequer. This job was like being the chief accountant and record-keeper for the government's money. His uncle, Henry Fanshawe, helped him get this position. The Fanshawe family held this job for a long time.
Thomas took over the job in 1568 when his uncle passed away. He was very good at his work and made sure everything was done carefully. He even wrote to Lord Burghley, a powerful advisor to the Queen, saying that he worked so hard he sometimes needed a break to take care of his health.
Serving in Parliament
Besides his job with the Queen's money, Thomas Fanshawe was also a Member of the English Parliament. This meant he was chosen by people to represent them and help make decisions for the country. He served in Parliament several times for different areas, including Rye, Arundel, and Much Wenlock.
In 1579, Thomas Fanshawe helped set up a free grammar school in Dronfield. This was a school where children could get an education without their families having to pay fees.
Family and Legacy
Thomas Fanshawe passed away in London on February 19, 1601. His funeral was held at the church in Ware.
He was married twice and had children from both marriages.
- His first wife was Mary, who was related to important statesmen like Sir Walter Mildmay.
- His second wife was Joan.
Many of his children also became important. His oldest son from his first marriage, Henry, took over his job as the Queen's Remembrancer. His son Thomas from his second marriage and his youngest son William also became Members of Parliament. His daughter Alice married Sir Christopher Hatton, who was related to another powerful person close to Queen Elizabeth.
His Writings
Thomas Fanshawe also wrote some books and papers about how the government's money office worked.
- One of his most famous works is The Practice of the Exchequor Court, which explains the different jobs and duties of the people working there. This book was published after he died, in 1658.
- He also wrote An Answer to Articles concerning the Lord Treasurer's Office, which was a response to questions about the job of the Lord Treasurer, another high-ranking financial position.
