Thomas Walton facts for kids
Sir Thomas Walton (also known as Wauton or Waweton) was an important English politician who lived from around 1370 to about 1450. He was a Member of Parliament (MP), which means he was elected to represent people in the English Parliament. He even became the Speaker of the House of Commons, a very important job in the government.
Early Life and Family
Thomas Walton was born in Great Staughton, a place in Huntingdonshire. His father, John de Walton, was also an MP for Huntingdonshire before him. This shows that public service ran in their family!
Thomas later married a woman named Alana Berry, who was from Wales. They had two sons and two daughters together.
A Career in Parliament
Sir Thomas Walton started his journey in Parliament in January 1396, representing his home county of Huntingdonshire. He was elected many times over the years, showing that people trusted him to speak for them.
He represented Huntingdonshire several times, and later also served as an MP for Bedfordshire. Being an MP meant he helped make laws and decisions for the country.
Important Roles and Achievements
Sir Thomas Walton held many important jobs during his life:
- High Sheriff: He was appointed High Sheriff of Bedfordshire four times (in 1415, 1422, 1428, and 1432). A High Sheriff was like a chief law enforcement officer and administrator for a county.
- Knighted: In September 1418, he was made a knight. This was a special honor given by the King.
- Chamberlain of North Wales: In 1422, he also became the chamberlain of North Wales. This was an important administrative role in that region.
- Speaker of the House: In 1424, Thomas Walton was chosen to be the Speaker of the House of Commons. The Speaker is the person who leads the debates in Parliament and makes sure rules are followed. It's a very respected position.
Sir Thomas Walton continued to serve his country for many years. In 1448, he was given a special pardon, meaning he no longer had to take on any more public jobs. He passed away not long after, around 1450.
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