Thomas Wharton, 2nd Baron Wharton facts for kids

Thomas Wharton, 2nd Baron Wharton (1520–1572) was an important English nobleman. He lived during a time when England had both kings and queens. Thomas was known for serving Queen Mary I. He held the title of Baron, which meant he was a member of the nobility.

His Family and Early Life

Thomas Wharton was born in 1520. His father was also named Thomas Wharton, and he was the 1st Baron Wharton. His mother was Eleanor Stapleton. Thomas was the oldest son in his family.

In 1547, Thomas married Anne Radcliffe. She was the daughter of Robert Radcliffe, who was the 1st Earl of Sussex.

Serving the Queen

Thomas Wharton was knighted in 1545. This meant he became a "Sir." He was a close helper and friend to Queen Mary I.

When King Edward VI died, Mary's half-sister Lady Jane Grey was briefly made queen. Thomas Wharton was with Mary at Kenninghall during this time. He helped escort Mary to Framlingham Castle. After Mary became queen, he went with her to the Tower of London.

Queen Mary trusted Thomas very much. She made him a "Master of the Henchmen." This was an important role in her royal household. He also became a member of the Privy Council. This group advised the Queen on important matters.

Political Roles and Parliament

Thomas Wharton held many important jobs. He was the High Sheriff of Cumberland in 1547. A sheriff was like a chief law enforcement officer for a county.

He was also elected to the Parliament several times. He represented different areas like Cumberland, Hedon, Yorkshire, and Northumberland. Being a Member of Parliament (MP) meant he helped make laws for the country.

Because Thomas was a strong supporter of Queen Mary and her beliefs, she gave him special gifts. She made sure he stayed in Parliament. She also gave him a large estate called the Manor of Newhall in Essex. He also received a house in London.

Later Life and Challenges

When Queen Mary died, her half-sister Elizabeth became queen. Thomas Wharton was a devoted Catholic, and Queen Elizabeth was Protestant. Because of this, he was no longer allowed to be in Parliament. He decided to live quietly at his home in Newhall.

However, Thomas continued to practice his Catholic faith. In 1561, he was sent to the Tower of London and kept there. This was the same year his wife, Anne, passed away.

Seven years later, in 1568, Thomas inherited his father's title. He became the 2nd Baron Wharton. He held this title for four years.

Thomas Wharton died on June 14, 1572. He was buried in Westminster Abbey, a very famous church in London.