Thomas Moyle facts for kids

Sir Thomas Moyle (born 1488 – died October 2, 1560) was an important person in England during the time of King Henry VIII. He helped the King take control of the monasteries, which were religious buildings run by monks and nuns. Sir Thomas also served as the Speaker of the House of Commons in the Parliament of England from 1542 to 1544. This meant he was in charge of leading discussions and keeping order in the main law-making group of the country.

Life and Career of Sir Thomas Moyle

Early Life and Family Connections

Thomas Moyle was the fourth son of John Moyle, who was a landowner and also a Member of Parliament (MP). His mother was Anne Darcy. By 1528, Thomas married Katherine Jordeyne. Her father, Edward Jordeyne, was a successful goldsmith in London and worked at the Royal Mint in the Tower of London. This marriage helped Thomas connect with important families and gain wealth.

Entering Politics and Becoming Speaker

Sir Thomas Moyle started his political career in 1542. He became a Member of Parliament for Peterborough. Soon after, he was chosen to be the Speaker of the House. This was a very important job. Later, he represented Rochester several times and also King's Lynn.

Helping King Henry VIII

After returning from Ireland in 1537, Thomas Moyle became a very loyal helper to King Henry VIII. He gained more land and became rich by taking over property from monasteries. This was part of the dissolution of the monasteries, where the King closed down these religious houses. In 1539, he helped look for hidden treasures in Glastonbury Abbey and gather information against the abbot (the head monk).

Sir Thomas was also one of the people chosen to welcome Anne of Cleves when she arrived in England to marry King Henry.

Speaker's Role and Important Events

As Speaker of the House of Commons, Sir Thomas Moyle gave a speech praising the King. He is also known for being one of the first Speakers to ask for "freedom of speech" for the Members of Parliament. This meant they could speak freely in Parliament without fear of being punished. During his time as Speaker, important events happened, like the condemnation of Catherine Howard and Lady Rochford.

In 1556–57, Moyle was appointed High Sheriff of Kent. He is believed to have passed away at Eastwell, Kent.

Building Eastwell Place

Sir Thomas Moyle hired a man named Richard Plantagenet to help build his home, Eastwell Place. According to old family stories, Richard Plantagenet claimed to be a son of King Richard III. Sir Thomas allowed him to live on his property until Richard Plantagenet died in 1550.

Sir Thomas Moyle's Legacy

Sir Thomas Moyle wrote his will on August 1, 1560. He left property to his wife and grandchildren. He also set aside some land and money for an almshouse in Eastwell parish, which was a place for poor people to live. The rest of his lands were divided between his daughters' families.

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