Thomas Parry (ambassador) facts for kids

Sir Thomas Parry was an important English politician and diplomat who lived during the Tudor period. This was a time when kings and queens like Elizabeth I of England ruled England. Sir Thomas helped run the country and represented England in other nations.

Who Was Sir Thomas Parry?

Sir Thomas Parry was born in 1541. His father, also named Sir Thomas Parry, was a very important person in the Royal Household. He was the Controller, which meant he managed the Queen's money and staff. Thomas's mother was Anne, daughter of Sir William Reade. Thomas went to Winchester School in 1558 to get his education.

Starting His Career in Politics

Sir Thomas Parry first became a Member of Parliament in 1571. He represented the area of Bridport. A Member of Parliament is someone elected to speak for their local area in the country's main law-making group.

He also held other important jobs in his home county of Berkshire. He was chosen as the High Sheriff of Berkshire twice, first from 1575 to 1576, and again from 1587 to 1588. A High Sheriff was a key local official who helped keep law and order. In 1593, he became a Deputy Lieutenant for Berkshire. This role helped with military matters and keeping peace in the county.

Important Roles and Travels

From 1586 to 1587, during the rule of Elizabeth I of England, Sir Thomas was a Member of Parliament for Berkshire. Later, in 1610, he also represented St Albans in Parliament.

In 1601, he was given the special title of "Knight." This meant he was recognized for his service to the country. After this, he was sent to France as the English ambassador. An ambassador is like a country's official representative in another country. Sir Thomas stayed in France for four years, working to keep good relations between England and France.

When he returned to England, he was given another big job: Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster. This role involved managing special lands and properties that belonged to the King or Queen.

Later Years and Legacy

In 1614, Sir Thomas Parry was again elected to Parliament for Berkshire. However, he faced some trouble. He was accused of getting involved in an election in a way he shouldn't have. Because of this, he was asked to leave Parliament. He also temporarily lost his job as Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster.

Sir Thomas Parry passed away in 1616 at his home, Hamstead Marshall House. He was buried in Westminster Abbey, a very famous church in London where many important people are laid to rest. He was married to Dorothy Brooke, who had been a maid of honour to the Queen. They did not have any children.