William Ellis (Secretary of State) facts for kids

Sir William Ellis (died 1732) was an English politician who supported King James II. He served as a top government official in Ireland in the 1680s. Later, when King James II was no longer on the throne, Sir William became his Secretary of State while James was living in another country.

Early Life and Education

William Ellis was the second son of John Ellis, who was a religious scholar. William went to a famous school called Westminster School. In 1665, he was chosen to be a student at Christ Church, Oxford, which is part of Oxford University. He earned his first degree, a Bachelor of Arts (BA), in 1669.

However, he later had a problem with his studies. In 1671, he accepted a Master of Arts (MA) degree from Cambridge University without getting permission from his own college at Oxford. Because of this, he lost his student position at Oxford and was never able to get it back, even with help from William III.

Working in Ireland

In 1676, William Ellis and his brother, Welbore Ellis, were given jobs in Ireland. They were responsible for collecting taxes and checking goods in the Irish regions of Leinster and Munster. These jobs allowed him to gain a lot of land and wealth in Ireland.

Later, in 1687, he became the secretary to Richard Talbot, 1st Earl of Tyrconnell. Tyrconnell was the King's chief representative in Ireland, like a governor. During this time, William Ellis was given the title of "Sir," meaning he was knighted.

Supporting King James II

When the "Glorious Revolution" happened in England, King James II lost his throne. Sir William Ellis chose to stay loyal to King James II and followed him to Ireland. There, he became part of King James's special advisory group, called the privy council. He was also appointed as one of the officials who helped manage Dublin in 1690.

In 1689, Sir William Ellis was one of only six Protestants who attended a special meeting called the "Patriot Parliament" in Ireland. He represented the area of St Johnstown.

After King James II was fully removed from power, Sir William Ellis was declared an outlaw in 1691. This meant he lost his property in Ireland, which was then taken over by his older brother, John Ellis. Sir William then became the secretary to King James II while James lived in exile at St. Germain, a castle in France. After King James II died in 1701, Sir William Ellis became the treasurer for James's son, who was known as the "Old Pretender" and also claimed the throne.

Later Years and Death

Sir William Ellis died in Rome, Italy, in the autumn of 1732. He remained a Protestant until his death. His name is recorded at the Protestant Cemetery, Rome, but there is no tombstone marking his grave. He was likely between 65 and 90 years old when he passed away.