Thomas Reynell facts for kids
Thomas Reynell (born 13 September 1625 – died 1698) was an important English lawyer and politician. He lived at East Ogwell in Devon. Thomas Reynell was a member of the English Parliament at different times between 1654 and 1689.
Early Life and Education
Thomas Reynell was the oldest son of Sir Richard Reynell. His mother, Mary Reynell, was also his cousin. She was the daughter of Richard Reynell of Creedy Widger, near Crediton. Thomas had a younger brother, Sir Richard Reynell, 1st Baronet, who became a very important judge in Ireland.
Thomas went to Exeter College, Oxford in 1640. After that, he studied law at Middle Temple in 1641. He became a Justice of the Peace (J.P.) in 1647. When his father passed away in 1648, Thomas took over the family's land and property. In 1649, he officially became a lawyer.
Public Service and Political Career
Thomas Reynell served his community in many ways. He was a Justice of the Peace for Devon several times, starting in 1652 and continuing until 1660. He also helped with taxes as a commissioner for assessment.
In 1654, Thomas was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for Devon. He served in the First Protectorate Parliament. He was elected again in 1656 for the Second Protectorate Parliament. In 1659, he became a Member of Parliament for Ashburton in the Third Protectorate Parliament.
After 1660, Thomas Reynell did not run for Parliament for a while. People at the time described him as having strong political views that were different from the government. He continued to serve as a Justice of the Peace for Devon until 1676. He also helped with a special investigation into the government of Newfoundland in 1667.
From 1677 to 1678, Thomas Reynell held the important position of High Sheriff of Devon. He was elected as the Member of Parliament for Ashburton again in 1679 and 1681. In 1685, he faced some challenges during a time of political unrest. He continued to be a Justice of the Peace for Devon from 1687 until he died. In 1689, he was elected MP for Ashburton one more time. The next year, he allowed his brother Richard to take his place in Parliament.
Family Life
Thomas Reynell was married twice. His first wife was Mary Bennet. They had one son and four daughters together.
Later, on 25 July 1673, he married Elizabeth Gould. Elizabeth was a widow and the daughter of James Gould, a merchant from London. Thomas and Elizabeth had three sons and two daughters.
His oldest son from his second marriage, named Richard, followed in his footsteps. Richard also became a Member of Parliament for Ashburton, serving between 1702 and 1734.
Thomas Reynell passed away at the age of 73. He was buried at East Ogwell on 1 March 1698.
Images for kids
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This picture shows the Reynell family's coat of arms.
