Thomas Stucley (MP) facts for kids
Sir Thomas Stucley (born August 24, 1620 – died September 20, 1663) was an important landowner and politician from Affeton Castle, Devon, England. He served in the House of Commons, which is like a part of the government, from 1661 until 1663. During the English Civil War, he was a soldier who fought for the King's side, known as the Royalists.
About Sir Thomas Stucley
Early Life and War Service
Thomas Stucley was the oldest son of John Stucley, who lived in Affeton, Devon. His mother was Honor Hals. When he was 17, in 1637, he began studying at Wadham College, Oxford. A year later, in 1638, he inherited land in West Worlington after his father passed away.
From 1643 to 1646, Thomas Stucley worked as a Justice of the Peace (J.P.) for Devon. This meant he helped keep law and order in the area. He was also a very good soldier for the Royalist army during the English Civil War. He started as a major in the cavalry (soldiers on horseback) in 1643. By the time the city of Exeter surrendered in 1646, he had become a colonel.
After the War
When the King returned to power in 1660, an event known as the Restoration, Thomas Stucley was made a knight. This meant he was given the title "Sir." He also got his job back as a Justice of the Peace. In August 1660, he became a Deputy Lieutenant (a senior helper to the Lord Lieutenant) and helped with collecting taxes. He kept these jobs until he died. For a few months in 1660, he was also a captain in a cavalry unit.
In 1661, Sir Thomas Stucley was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Tiverton. He served in a group of politicians known as the Cavalier Parliament. He also helped with other important tasks, like assisting loyal officers who had lost their jobs, from 1662 to 1663.
Sir Thomas Stucley passed away when he was 43 years old. He was buried in West Worlington. He had married Elizabeth Sydenham around 1642. They had two sons and four daughters. Sadly, both of his sons died when they were young. Because of this, his family's property eventually went to his brother, Lewis Stucley.
