Thomas Nash (relative of Shakespeare) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas Nash
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Thomas Nash, c. 1635
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| Born |
Stratford-upon-Avon, England
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| Baptised | 20 June 1593 |
| Died | 4 April 1647 (aged 53) Stratford-upon-Avon, England
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| Occupation | Possibly an assistant to the High Sheriff of Warwickshire |
| Spouse(s) | Elizabeth Hall |
Thomas Nash (born 20 June 1593 – died 4 April 1647) was the first husband of William Shakespeare's granddaughter, Elizabeth Barnard. He spent most of his life in Stratford-upon-Avon. After the death of Dr. John Hall in 1635, Thomas Nash became the main male figure in Shakespeare's family.
Contents
Early Life in Stratford
Thomas Nash was born in Stratford-upon-Avon. He was baptised at the Holy Trinity Church. His father, Anthony Nash, was a friend of William Shakespeare. His mother was Mary Baugh.
When he was 22, Thomas Nash went to Lincoln's Inn in London. This was one of the special schools where people learned to become lawyers.
Thomas Nash's Work and Life
Thomas Nash finished his law studies in 1623. However, there is no proof that he ever worked as a lawyer. He might have taken over a job his father had. This job involved working for Sir John Hubaud, a local official.
When Thomas's father died in 1622, Thomas inherited some properties in Stratford. These included the Bear Inn and a house on Bridge Street. He also got a piece of land by the River Avon. Thomas was in charge of making sure his father's wishes in his will were followed.
It seems Thomas continued to own the Bear Inn. His father-in-law, Dr. John Hall, once treated a servant who worked there. This suggests Thomas might have been involved in running the inn.
In 1633, Thomas Nash helped settle a disagreement. This was about a house called The Cage and Thomas Quiney, Shakespeare's son-in-law. Thomas Nash lived in the house now known as Nash's House. Later, he moved next door to New Place to live with his mother-in-law, Susanna Hall. This happened after Dr. Hall died in 1635.
Thomas Nash was a strong supporter of King Charles I. He even gave £100 to the king's cause. Because of this, King Charles I and Queen Henrietta Maria stayed with Thomas and his family at New Place in July 1643.
Family and Personal Life
Marriage to Elizabeth Hall
Thomas Nash married Elizabeth Hall on 22 April 1626. Elizabeth was William Shakespeare's granddaughter. They got married at Holy Trinity Church in Stratford-upon-Avon. Thomas was 32 years old, and Elizabeth was 18.
Some people believe they chose this date to celebrate Shakespeare's birthday. He was baptised on April 26th, and his birthday is often celebrated on April 23rd. Thomas and Elizabeth did not have any children. Elizabeth was the last direct descendant of William Shakespeare.
Thomas Nash's Death
Thomas Nash died in 1647 when he was 53 years old. In his will, he left special memorial rings to Thomas Quiney and Judith Quiney. They were Shakespeare's son-in-law and daughter.
Thomas also tried to leave New Place to his cousin, Edward Nash. However, New Place belonged to his mother-in-law, Susanna Hall. Susanna successfully kept the house. Shakespeare had bought New Place in 1597.
Thomas Nash was buried in Holy Trinity Church. His grave is right next to Shakespeare's. Being buried there was a great honour. His burial inscription says:
HEERE RESTETH YE BODY OF THOMAS
NASHE, ESQ. HE MAR. ELIZABETH, THE
DAVG: & HEIRE OF IOHN HALLE, GENT.
HE DIED APRIL 4. A. 1647, AGED 53.
Two years after Thomas died, his wife Elizabeth married again.
