William Ashe (1647–1713) facts for kids
William Ashe (born November 17, 1647 – died October 22, 1713) was an important English politician from a long time ago. He lived in a place called Heytesbury, in Wiltshire, England. He also studied law at the Inner Temple in London.
William Ashe was the son of Edward Ashe. He went to school at the Inner Temple in 1652, which was a famous place for learning law. Later, in 1664, he started studying at St Edmund Hall, Oxford, a part of the famous Oxford University. When his father passed away in 1656, William inherited his family's lands, including the Heytesbury estate. He even rebuilt the main house there around the year 1700.
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William Ashe: A Life in Politics
William Ashe spent many years serving in the English government. He was a very active person in his community and in the country's law-making body.
Serving as a Member of Parliament
William Ashe was a Member of Parliament (MP). This meant he was chosen by people to represent them in the Parliament of England. The Parliament was like the government's main meeting place where laws were made. He represented the area of Heytesbury many times. He was an MP for Heytesbury in 1668, 1679 (twice), 1681, 1685, 1689, 1690, 1695, 1698, and 1701. He also represented the larger area of Wiltshire in 1701.
Other Important Roles
Besides being an MP, William Ashe had other important jobs. From 1673 to 1680, he helped collect taxes in Wiltshire. He also did this in Kent from 1677 to 1680, and again for both areas from 1689 to 1690.
He became a Justice of the Peace in 1689 and held this role until he died. A Justice of the Peace was a local official who helped keep order and dealt with minor legal issues. By 1701, he was also a Deputy Lieutenant, another important local government position.
Family Life and Legacy
William Ashe was married two times during his life. His family was an important part of his story.
His Marriages and Children
In 1670, William Ashe married Anne Popham. She was from Littlecote, Wiltshire. Together, they had four sons and one daughter. After Anne passed away, William married again. His second wife was Mary Rivett. She was a widow whose first husband was Sir Henry Appleton.
His Passing
William Ashe passed away in 1713. He was buried in Heytesbury, the place where his family estate was located. His son, Edward, took over the family's responsibilities after him.
