William Hyde (high sheriff) facts for kids

William Hyde (1490–1557) was an important English politician during the Tudor period, a time when England was ruled by the Tudor family of kings and queens. He was known for his work in government and for representing his local area.

Who Was William Hyde?

William Hyde was born in 1490. He was the oldest son of Oliver Hyde, who lived in a place called South Denchworth. This area was near Wantage in Berkshire, which is now part of Oxfordshire. His mother was Anne, the daughter of Thomas Lovingcott.

Family Life

When William's father passed away in 1516, William took over the family home and lands in Denchworth. Around the same time, he married Margery Cater. Margery was the daughter of John Cater from Letcombe Regis. William and Margery had a very large family with twenty children! They had twelve sons and eight daughters.

William Hyde's Public Service

William Hyde held several important jobs in his community and in the government. These roles showed he was a trusted and respected person.

What Was a High Sheriff?

In 1551, William became the High Sheriff of Berkshire and Oxfordshire. A High Sheriff was a very important official in a county. They were responsible for keeping law and order, managing elections, and making sure the king or queen's commands were followed. It was a bit like being the main local leader for justice and administration.

Serving in Parliament

William Hyde also became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Berkshire. This meant he was chosen to represent his area in the English Parliament, which is where laws were made. He served as an MP in 1553, 1554, and 1555. Being an MP meant he helped make decisions for the country.

Important Historical Events

William Hyde was involved in some big events during his lifetime.

• He helped the government against a group of rebels during something called the Pilgrimage of Grace. This was a time when some people in England protested against changes made by the king.
• He was also among the important English people who met Anne of Cleves when she first arrived in England. Anne of Cleves was one of King Henry VIII's wives.

Later Life and Legacy

William Hyde passed away on May 2, 1557. His oldest son, who was also named William, took over the family estates. William Hyde is remembered with a special memorial brass in Denchworth Church. These brass memorials often show a picture of the person and tell a bit about their life.