Thomas Mildmay facts for kids

Sir Thomas Mildmay was an important English gentleman and politician who lived a long time ago, from around 1540 to 1608. He was known for working for the royal court and for being involved in the government of England during his time.

Early Life and Education

Thomas Mildmay was the oldest son of a man also named Thomas Mildmay. He was born around 1540. He went to a famous university called Christ's College in Cambridge to get his education. Later, in 1559, he joined Lincoln's Inn, which was a place where people studied to become lawyers. He also had a brother named Walter Mildmay.

A Career in Politics

Sir Thomas Mildmay had a busy career in politics.

• In 1563, he was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for a place called Lostwithiel. An MP is someone who represents their area in the country's main law-making group.
• He was made a knight on June 23, 1567. Being knighted was a special honor given by the Queen or King.
• In 1571, he became an MP again, this time representing Essex.
• He also served as the Sheriff of Essex in 1572. A High Sheriff was a very important local official who helped keep law and order.
• From 1576 until he died in 1608, he was the Custos Rotulorum of Essex. This was another important job where he was in charge of all the records and documents for the county of Essex.

Family Life

Sir Thomas Mildmay was married twice.

• His first wife was Lady Frances Radclyffe. She was the daughter of a nobleman, Henry Radclyffe, who was the 2nd Earl of Sussex.
• With Lady Frances, Sir Thomas had three sons and one daughter.
• His daughter, Anne, married a gentleman named Sir Roger Appleton, 1st Baronet.
• His second wife was Margaret Whettle (sometimes spelled Whitwell).