Thomas Hughes (MP) facts for kids

Thomas Hughes (born 1604 – died August 22, 1664) was an important Welsh politician. He was a member of the House of Commons, which is like a part of the government, in 1654 and again in 1659.

Who Was Thomas Hughes?

Thomas Hughes was born in 1604. He was the older son of Thomas Hughes, who lived in a place called Cillwch. Thomas Hughes grew up to become a key figure in Welsh politics during a very interesting time in English history.

His Early Life and Family

Thomas Hughes came from a family in Wales. His father, also named Thomas Hughes, passed away in 1624. Thomas later married a woman named Isabel Godwin.

Interestingly, Thomas Hughes had a brother named Charles. While Thomas supported the new government called the Commonwealth, his brother Charles was a major in the Royalist army. The Royalists were people who supported the King during the English Civil War. This shows how families could be divided during that time!

Thomas Hughes's Political Career

Thomas Hughes was a strong supporter of the Commonwealth. This was the government that ruled England after the English Civil War, when there was no king for a while.

Important Roles He Held

• Parliamentary Committee: In 1646, Thomas Hughes was part of the Parliamentary Committee for Monmouthshire. This committee helped manage affairs in the region for the government.
• Governor of Chepstow Castle: Before 1647, he became the Governor of Chepstow Castle. This meant he was in charge of this important castle and its defenses.
• Legal Work: In 1653, Thomas Hughes held a significant legal position. He was a "prothonotary" for the court of great sessions in areas like Brecknock, Glamorgan, and Radnorshire. This role involved managing important legal documents and court records.

Becoming a Member of Parliament

Thomas Hughes was chosen by the people to represent them in the government.

• First Election: In 1654, he was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Monmouthshire. He served in what was called the First Protectorate Parliament.
• Second Election: Later, in 1659, he was elected again as an MP, this time for Carmarthenshire. He served in the Third Protectorate Parliament.

His Later Years

Thomas Hughes lived to be 59 years old. He passed away on August 22, 1664. He was buried in a church located in Matherne.