Thomas Leighton (died 1600) facts for kids
Thomas Leighton (born around 1554 – died May 17, 1600) was an English soldier and a person involved in politics during the time of Queen Elizabeth I. He was known for serving his country and his local area.
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Early Life and Family
Thomas Leighton was the oldest son of Sir Edward Leighton. His family lived at a place called Wattlesborough Castle. His mother was Anne Dayrell. Thomas also had a famous uncle, Sir Thomas Leighton, who was the Governor of Guernsey, an island. Both his father and uncle were trusted by Queen Elizabeth I.
Education and Home
Thomas went to Shrewsbury School in 1566. Later, in 1571, he studied law at a famous place called the Inner Temple in London. When his father passed away in 1593, Thomas took over the family's lands and properties.
Soldier and Leader
When Thomas was a young man, he was a soldier. He might have fought in wars in a region called the Low Countries (which is now parts of Belgium and the Netherlands). By 1588, he became a captain. This meant he was in charge of the trained soldiers from his local area, Shropshire.
Public Service
Thomas Leighton also held important jobs in his community. Around 1592, he became a Justice of the Peace. This role meant he helped keep law and order in his area. From 1596, he was a Deputy Lieutenant of Shropshire. This was another important position, helping to manage the county.
Member of Parliament
In 1597, Thomas Leighton became a Member (MP) for Shropshire. This meant he represented his home area in the Parliament of England. However, he became very ill during this time, which made it hard for him to attend meetings in the House of Commons.
Later Life and Legacy
Thomas Leighton passed away in 1600 and was buried in a place called Alberbury. People at the time described him as "a worthy gentleman, well-beloved by his shire." This means he was a good person and well-liked by the people of his county.
Family and Descendants
Thomas was married to Elizabeth, who was the daughter of Sir William Gerard. Sir William Gerard was a very important person called the Lord Chancellor of Ireland. Thomas and Elizabeth had four sons and three daughters. Their oldest son, Robert, continued the family line. Robert's descendants became known as the Leighton baronets of Wattlesborough. Elizabeth, Thomas's wife, lived until 1626.
