Thomas Trentham facts for kids

Thomas Trentham (born 1538, died 1587) was an important English politician during the time of Queen Elizabeth I. He was known for his strong beliefs and for being trusted by the Queen. He held several important jobs in the government, especially in the county of Staffordshire.

Who Was Thomas Trentham?

Thomas Trentham was born in 1538. His father was Richard Trentham, who lived at Rocester Abbey. Richard Trentham passed away in 1547 when Thomas was still young.

Thomas Trentham's Political Career

Thomas Trentham had a busy and important career in politics. He served in the English Parliament and held key roles in his home county.

Serving in Parliament

In 1571, Thomas Trentham became a Knight of the Shire. This meant he was chosen to represent the County of Stafford in the House of Commons. The House of Commons is a part of the English Parliament, where laws are made. He was one of two people chosen from Staffordshire to speak for the county.

High Sheriff of Staffordshire

Later in 1571, Thomas Trentham was given another important job. He was appointed the High Sheriff of Staffordshire. The High Sheriff was like a chief law enforcement officer for the county. He was responsible for keeping peace and order. Thomas served as High Sheriff again in 1579.

Trusted by the Queen

Thomas Trentham was a very strong Protestant, meaning he had firm religious beliefs. Because of this, Queen Elizabeth I trusted him a lot. By 1577, she appointed him the Custos Rotulorum of Staffordshire. This title meant he was the main keeper of the county's records and the most senior justice of the peace.

He also had a special duty related to Mary, Queen of Scots. Thomas was one of the gentlemen from Staffordshire chosen to accompany Mary when she was moved to Fotheringay Castle.

Family Life and Legacy

Thomas Trentham passed away in 1587 and was buried on May 25, 1587, at Rocester Abbey in Staffordshire.

He had married Jane Sneyd around 1561, and they had several children together. His son, Francis Trentham, followed in his footsteps and became High Sheriff of Staffordshire in 1592. Another son, also named Thomas, became a Member of Parliament for Newcastle-under-Lyme. His daughter, Elizabeth Trentham, married a very important nobleman, Edward de Vere, 17th Earl of Oxford, in 1591.