William Draper (MP) facts for kids

William Draper (born 1620, died 1672) was an English politician. He was a member of the House of Commons in 1653. Draper was a strong supporter of the Parliament during a time known as the Commonwealth period in England.

Early Life and Family

William Draper was likely the son of Robert Draper. His family originally came from Kent, but they settled in Nether Worton, a village in Oxfordshire. William became one of the most important landowners in Nether Worton.

He was known as a landlord who worked to improve his land and properties. William had a sister named Anna. She married Francis Osborne, who was famous for writing a book called Advice to a Son.

Education and Early Career

William Draper started studying at Christ Church, Oxford on May 20, 1636, when he was 16 years old.

In March 1649, he became a commissioner for Oxfordshire. This meant he helped the government manage certain affairs in the area. He wrote to the Council of State, which was a powerful government group, about keeping peace in Oxford. The Council thanked him for his efforts.

Military and Government Roles

William Draper held several important positions during the Commonwealth period. These roles showed his loyalty and importance to the government.

Captain and Governor

On April 2, 1650, the Council appointed him as Captain of the Horse Militia in Oxfordshire. This was a military role where he led a group of cavalry.

He then became the Governor of Oxford starting on May 9, 1651. As Governor, he was in charge of the city's defense and administration. On August 16, 1651, he was also made Captain of the Horse Volunteers for Oxford City and the University.

Protecting Wallingford Castle

On September 17, 1651, the Council gave him another important task. They told him to guard Wallingford Castle. He was instructed to go there and stay until he received new orders. This shows how much the government trusted him with important military sites.

Member of Parliament

In 1653, William Draper was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for Oxfordshire. He served in a special Parliament known as the Barebones Parliament.

While serving in Parliament, the Council of State arranged for him to have lodgings in Whitehall. This was a common practice for Members of Parliament at the time. He was also given a stable for his horses.

Later Life and Family

William Draper continued to serve in public roles. He was the Sheriff of Oxfordshire in both 1655 and 1657. The Sheriff was a key official responsible for law enforcement and other duties in the county.

He married Mary Parsons, who was also from Nether Worton. They had a son, also named William, and a daughter. Their daughter married her cousin, John Osborne, who was a lawyer. She later moved to Ireland with her husband and had two children there.

William Draper's last will was written on March 29, 1672, before his death.