William Howard, 3rd Baron Howard of Effingham facts for kids

William Howard, 3rd Baron Howard of Effingham (born December 27, 1577 – died November 28, 1615) was an English nobleman. He was the oldest son of Charles Howard, 1st Earl of Nottingham and Catherine Carey. His father, Charles Howard, was famous for leading the English fleet against the powerful Spanish Armada. His mother, Catherine Carey, was a lady-in-waiting to Queen Elizabeth I.

William Howard: A Young Nobleman

William Howard was an important person in English history. He was part of a noble family and played a role in the government during his time. His life shows how titles and family connections worked in England long ago.

Early Life and Family

William Howard was born into a very important family. His father, Charles Howard, was a hero for defending England from the Spanish Armada. This made their family well-known and respected. William's mother, Catherine, was close to the Queen. This background meant William grew up with many advantages and responsibilities.

Starting in Politics

In 1597, William Howard was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Surrey. An MP is someone elected to represent people in the country's main law-making body. However, something unusual happened just before Parliament met. His father was given a higher title, becoming an Earl. This meant William, as his father's oldest son, gained a special title called "Lord Howard of Effingham."

A Seat in Parliament

People at the time mistakenly thought that having this new title meant William could not be an MP. So, his younger brother, Charles, was chosen to take his place. Charles then served as the MP for Surrey. But by the next election in 1601, everyone understood the rules better. William Howard was correctly elected and served as the MP for Surrey that time.

Life in the House of Lords

In 1603, William Howard was called to join the House of Lords. This is the upper part of the English Parliament, where nobles and important religious leaders sit. He was called by something called a "writ of acceleration." This meant he could take his father's place as a Baron in the House of Lords while his father was still alive. He served as a peer (a member of the nobility with a seat in Parliament) until he died.

Sadly, William died in 1615 when he was only 37 years old. He passed away before his father. He also did not have any sons. Because of this, his younger brother eventually inherited both the Earldom and the Barony. Some people do not count William as the 3rd Baron Howard of Effingham because he died before officially inheriting the main title from his father.

Family and Legacy

William Howard married Ann St John on February 7, 1597. Ann was the daughter of John St John, 2nd Baron St John of Bletso. William and Ann had one daughter named Elizabeth (1603–1671). Elizabeth later married John Mordaunt, 1st Earl of Peterborough. William died in Hampton, Middlesex.

Lady Ann Howard's Role

William's wife, Ann Howard, Lady Effingham, was also involved in court life. In January 1605, she took part in a special performance called "Psychrote" in The Masque of Blackness. Masques were popular forms of entertainment at the time, combining music, dance, and elaborate costumes.