Thomas Yorke (1658–1716) facts for kids
Thomas Yorke (born 1658, died 1716) was an important English landowner and a politician. He was a member of the House of Commons, which is like the main part of the UK's Parliament. He represented his local area, Richmond, for many years between 1689 and 1716.
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Thomas Yorke's Early Life and Family
Thomas Yorke was born in 1658. His father, John Yorke, owned Gouthwaite Hall and was also a Member of Parliament for Richmond. Thomas's mother was Mary Norton.
When Thomas was only four years old, his father passed away. Thomas then inherited his father's lands, including Gouthwaite Hall in Nidderdale and other properties in Richmond. Later, in 1674, his mother bought more land, the manor of Bewerley, which also became part of Thomas's inheritance.
In 1680, Thomas Yorke married Katherine Lister. She also brought more land into the family from her own inheritance in Lancashire.
Thomas Yorke's Political Journey
Thomas Yorke was a member of a political group called the Whigs. He was first chosen to be a Member of Parliament for the Richmond area in 1689. This was for a special meeting of Parliament called the Convention Parliament.
His Role in Local Government
Besides being an MP, Thomas Yorke also held important local jobs. From 1689 to 1690, he helped with taxes in Yorkshire. By 1690, he became a Justice of the Peace for the North Riding of Yorkshire. This meant he helped keep law and order in the area, a role he kept for the rest of his life.
His Time in Parliament
Thomas Yorke was an MP for many years, though he had a couple of short breaks.
- He lost his seat in 1690 but was re-elected in 1695.
- He supported the government's plans and voted on important issues. For example, in 1696, he voted to remove Sir John Fenwick from his position.
- He was re-elected without anyone running against him in 1698 and 1701. During these times, he was not very active in Parliament.
- He was re-elected again in 1702 and 1705.
- In 1708, he was re-elected without opposition and voted for a law that helped people from other countries become British citizens.
- He likely voted to challenge a Dr. Sachaverell, though records are not completely clear on this.
- In 1710, his son, John, took his place as MP.
- Thomas Yorke returned to Parliament in 1713 after a tough election. He voted against removing Richard Steele from Parliament in 1714.
- He kept his seat in the 1715 election.
The End of His Life
Thomas Yorke passed away in 1716. He was buried in the church in Richmond on November 16th. He had three sons and four daughters.
