William Fitzwilliam (died 1559) facts for kids

Sir William FitzWilliam (born 1506, died 1559) was an important person in England during the time of King Edward VI. He was a courtier, which means he worked closely with the royal family. He also served as a Member of Parliament, helping to make laws.

Sir William held many important jobs. He was the Chief Gentleman of the Privy Chamber for King Edward VI, which was a very close and trusted position. He also served as Deputy Chancellor of Ireland, helped manage Windsor Castle, and looked after Windsor Great Park. Later, he became the Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire.

Early Life and Family Connections

William FitzWilliam was born in 1506. His father was Thomas Fitzwilliam from Baggotrath Castle in County Dublin, Ireland. His mother was Eleanor Dowdall.

In 1536, William and his brother Richard moved to England. Richard worked for King Henry VIII. William started working for his relative, William FitzWilliam, who was the 1st Earl of Southampton.

Working for the King

Sir William FitzWilliam became a Member of Parliament (MP) several times. He represented different areas like Guildford, New Shoreham, and Berkshire.

By 1544, he was a very important person in the royal court. He became the Chief Gentleman of the Privy Chamber to Prince Edward, who later became King Edward VI. This job meant he was one of the closest advisors and helpers to the young prince. He continued in this role from 1547 to 1553, when Edward was king.

In 1551 or 1552, King Edward VI made him a knight. This was a great honor! He was also put in charge of Windsor Castle as its Lieutenant and became the Keeper of Windsor Great Park. These were important roles, showing how much he was trusted.

From 1554 to 1556, he served as the Deputy Chancellor of Ireland. In 1559, the year he died, he was made the Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire. Elizabeth I, who became queen that year, thought very highly of him.

Sir William's Family

In 1539, Sir William FitzWilliam married Jane Roberts. Her family also had connections to important people, including relatives of Anne Boleyn, who was King Henry VIII's second wife.

Sir William and Jane had four daughters:

• Mabel FitzWilliam (born 1540, died 1565) married Sir Thomas Browne.
• Catherine FitzWilliam (born 1542, died 1583) married Christopher Preston, who was the 4th Viscount Gormanston.
• Elizabeth FitzWilliam (born 1544) married Francis Jermy.

Sir William FitzWilliam passed away on October 3, 1559. He was buried in the Bray Chantry at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle.