Thomas Windebank facts for kids
Sir Thomas Windebank, born around 1612, was an important figure in English history. He served as a Member of Parliament (M.P.) for a place called Wootton Bassett. He was also a strong supporter of the Royalists, also known as the Cavaliers, during the English Civil War. This was a big conflict in England. Sir Thomas worked as a Clerk of the Signet, which was a key job in the government, from 1641 to 1645. After a period called the Interregnum, he returned to this role from 1660 to 1674.
Contents
About Sir Thomas Windebank
Thomas Windebank was born around 1612. He was the oldest son of Sir Francis Windebank, who later became a very important government official for King Charles I. Young Thomas was expected to follow in his father's footsteps and work for the King.
Early Life and Education
When he was 17, in 1629, Thomas went to St. John's College, Oxford. This is a famous university. However, he did not finish his degree there.
Starting His Career
In 1631, Thomas's father helped him get a promise for a future job as a Clerk of the Signet. Soon after, Thomas began working for Thomas Howard, who was the Earl Marshal. The Earl Marshal was in charge of important ceremonies and noble families.
Between 1635 and 1636, Thomas traveled through Spain and Italy. These were important countries in Europe.
Working for the King
By 1640, Thomas was back in England. He became a Member of Parliament (M.P.) for Wootton Bassett in Wiltshire. This was during a time known as the Short Parliament. In 1641, he officially started his duties as a Clerk of the Signet. This job involved handling important royal documents and letters.
During the English Civil War
Sir Thomas Windebank was a loyal supporter of the King's side, known as the Royalists, during the English Civil War. Because of his loyalty, he was given the special title of a baronet on November 25, 1645. A baronet is a hereditary title, meaning it can be passed down in the family.
After the war and a period when England did not have a king (the Interregnum), the monarchy was brought back in an event called the Restoration. Sir Thomas Windebank returned to his role as Clerk of the Signet in 1660 and continued until 1674.
His Family
Sir Thomas Windebank was married and had a son named Francis. When Francis passed away in 1719, the baronetcy (the special title) ended because there were no more direct male heirs to inherit it.
