Thomas Nevill facts for kids

Sir Thomas Neville (born before 1484 – died 29 May 1542) was an important person in England during the time of King Henry VIII. He was a skilled lawyer and a trusted advisor to the King. In 1515, he was chosen to be the Speaker of the House of Commons. This was a very important job in the English government.

Who Was Sir Thomas Neville?

Sir Thomas Neville was one of the younger sons of George Neville, 4th Baron Bergavenny. His mother was Margaret Fenn. He was born into a well-known family.

Sir Thomas Neville's Career

Sir Thomas Neville became a lawyer. He was a member of Gray's Inn, which is a place where lawyers are trained. By 1514, he started helping people with legal processes. These processes were about getting control of their family lands from the King.

Working for the King

From 1516 to 1527, Sir Thomas Neville often attended meetings with King Henry VIII's council. He was very active in two important courts: the Star Chamber and the Court of Requests. These courts helped solve legal problems. It is said that by 1522, only he and Sir Thomas More could easily talk to the King.

Speaker of the House of Commons

On 8 February 1515, Sir Thomas Neville was chosen as the Speaker of the House of Commons. This meant he led the meetings of the House of Commons. King Henry VIII knighted him, which was a special honor. After being Speaker, he continued to serve at the King's court.

Important Events and Treaties

Sir Thomas Neville was involved in signing at least two important treaties. He was also present at famous events like the Field of Cloth of Gold. This was a grand meeting between King Henry VIII and the King of France. He also met with Emperor Charles V. In 1533, he received a gift from the King. He was also there to welcome Anne of Cleves when she arrived in England.

Family Challenges

Sir Thomas Neville's older brother, George Neville, faced difficulties in 1521. Another brother, Sir Edward Neville, also had problems later on. However, these challenges did not affect Sir Thomas Neville's own career. He continued to be successful at court.

Family and Wealth

In 1535, there were talks about his only child, Margaret, marrying Gregory Cromwell. Gregory was the son of Thomas Cromwell, a very powerful minister to King Henry VIII. Margaret later married Sir Robert Southwell. Sir Thomas Neville was quite wealthy. He was able to lend money to other important people at court. These included the King's brother-in-law, Charles Brandon, and Henry Percy.

His Final Years

Sir Thomas Neville wrote his will on 23 May 1542. He passed away six days later, on 29 May 1542. He was buried in Mereworth church in Kent. There is a special memorial there to remember him.

Sir Thomas Neville's Marriages

Sir Thomas Neville was married twice.

First Marriage

His first wife was Katherine Dacre. She was the daughter of Humphrey Dacre. They had one child together, a daughter named Margaret Neville. Margaret married Sir Robert Southwell in 1536. After Sir Robert passed away, Margaret married William Plumbe. She died on 25 December 1575. She was buried in the Church of St Giles at Wyddial.

Second Marriage

Sir Thomas Neville's second wife was Elizabeth Bryce. She was the widow of Robert Amadas. Robert Amadas was a goldsmith and worked for King Henry VIII. Elizabeth passed away before Sir Thomas Neville. They did not have any children together.

Images for kids

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  Mereworth church, where Sir Thomas Neville is buried