William Coles (MP) facts for kids
William Coles (born in 1616, died in 1697) was an English lawyer and a politician. He was a member of the House of Commons in 1659 and again in 1660. He helped make laws and decisions for the country.
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Who Was William Coles?
William Coles was born in 1616. His father was Barnabas Coles and his mother was Katherine Barnes. They lived in a place called Woodfalls.
Early Life and Education
William went to Brasenose College, Oxford in 1635 to study. After that, he joined Middle Temple in 1637. This was a place where people trained to become lawyers. He became a lawyer in 1645.
Becoming a Politician
William Coles became involved in public service. From 1653 to 1660, he worked as a Justice of the Peace (J.P.). A J.P. helps keep law and order in their local area.
He also served in several other important roles:
- He helped organize the local army (militia) in Wiltshire in 1648 and again in 1659 and 1660.
- He was a commissioner for taxes (assessment) in 1657 and 1660.
- He also helped manage property that had been taken by the government (sequestrations) in 1659.
Serving in Parliament
In 1659, William Coles was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for a town called Downton. He served in the Third Protectorate Parliament. An MP is someone elected by people to represent them in the House of Commons. They help make laws for the country.
He was elected again for Downton in April 1660 for the Convention Parliament. However, he was only allowed to be an MP for six days before he was unseated.
William Coles passed away when he was about 80 years old.
Family Life
William Coles was married three times.
- His first wife was Eleanor Fitzjames. They married in 1647 and had three sons.
- His second wife was named Joyce. They married before 1657 and had two sons and two daughters.
- His third wife was Elizabeth Raleigh. They married in 1690. She was a widow from Downton.
