Thomas Walsingham (literary patron) facts for kids

Sir Thomas Walsingham (born around 1561 – died August 11, 1630) was an important person in the court of Queen Elizabeth I. He was also a patron of writers, meaning he supported poets like Thomas Watson, Thomas Nashe, George Chapman, and Christopher Marlowe.

Sir Thomas was related to Francis Walsingham, who was Queen Elizabeth's spymaster. He was known for helping many talented writers during his time.

Early Life and Family

Thomas Walsingham was the third son of Sir Thomas Walsingham (1526–1584). His father was a major landowner in Kent, England. His grandfather was Sir Edmund Walsingham, who served King Henry VIII and later became the Lieutenant of the Tower of London.

Thomas was also a cousin to Sir Francis Walsingham, who was an ambassador to France and led England's secret intelligence. In November 1589, Thomas inherited the large estate of Scadbury in Kent. This happened after his older brothers, Guldeford and Edmund, passed away. By 1593, he was living at Scadbury.

Serving the Royal Family

Thomas Walsingham began his service to the royal family early on. In October 1580, his cousin Francis Walsingham chose him to be a trusted messenger. He carried important messages between the English court and the queen's ambassador in France.

In August 1581, Thomas traveled with Sir Francis to Paris. They were on a special mission about a possible marriage between Queen Elizabeth and the French king's brother.

Later, in 1596, Thomas was made a Justice of the Peace for the area of Rokesley in Kent. He helped organize local defenses against the Spanish Armada, a large Spanish fleet.

Soon after, he was made a knight. This happened during a royal visit by the queen to his home at Scadbury. His wife, Audrey, was a favorite of the queen, which likely led to this visit. After this, Sir Thomas and Audrey often attended the royal court.

He was elected as a Member of Parliament for Rochester in 1597, 1601, and 1604. In 1614, he was elected to Parliament again, this time representing Kent.

Supporting Writers

Sir Thomas Walsingham was a generous supporter of poets and writers. The first poet he helped was Thomas Watson, who he knew from their time working for Sir Francis Walsingham in France. Watson dedicated a poem to Thomas Walsingham, who had recently inherited his wealth.

Thomas Walsingham truly enjoyed supporting writers. It is believed that Watson introduced Christopher Marlowe to Sir Thomas. Marlowe became a frequent guest at Scadbury. Other poets who dedicated their works to Walsingham showed a sense of friendship and respect, rather than just formal duty. Sir Thomas Walsingham was also present at Marlowe's funeral.

Personal Life

Thomas Walsingham married Audrey Shelton. She was the daughter of Sir Ralph Shelton from Norfolk. They had a son and a daughter, though their daughter passed away before them. Audrey also passed away before Sir Thomas, in 1624.

The Walsingham family remained important even after Queen Elizabeth died and King James became king. Audrey Walsingham was very influential at court and helped King James become the new ruler. Because of Queen Anne's favor, Sir Thomas and Audrey were given the job of "keepers of the queen's wardrobe." This meant they were in charge of the queen's clothes and personal items.

Thanks to Queen Anne's support, the family became very wealthy and received many royal honors. This was a great change from Sir Thomas's early life as a younger son with little money.

Sir Thomas Walsingham passed away at Scadbury on August 11, 1630. He was a very rich landowner. He left some money to the poor people of Chislehurst and his servants. Most of his wealth went to his granddaughter, Catherine. He was buried in the family chapel at St Nicholas's Church in Chislehurst.

His son, also named Thomas, inherited his estate. He also became a Member of Parliament for Rochester.

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