William Wheler facts for kids

Sir William Wheler (born around 1611, died 1666) was an English politician. He was a member of the House of Commons, which is like a main part of the government in England. He served there at different times between 1640 and 1660. He was given a special honor called a "knighthood" by Oliver Cromwell, who was the leader of England at the time. Later, King Charles II made him a "baronet," which is another special title.

Sir William's Life and Work

Sir William Wheler was born in Holland, probably in 1611. His father, John Wheler, was a goldsmith from London.

Becoming a Member of Parliament

In November 1640, Sir William was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for a place called Westbury. He was part of an important meeting of Parliament known as the Long Parliament. In 1643, he was also a member of the Westminster Assembly, a group that discussed religious matters.

He was made a knight before 1649. He continued to serve in Parliament until 1648, when some members were removed during a political event called Pride's Purge.

Later Political Roles

In 1657, Sir William was knighted again, this time by Oliver Cromwell, who was then known as the Lord Protector of England. In 1659, he represented an area called Banffshire in another Parliament.

When King Charles II returned to the throne in 1660, Sir William was again elected as an MP, this time for Queensborough. On August 11, 1660, King Charles II made him a baronet. This was a special honor that could be passed down in his family.

His Final Years

In 1666, a terrible sickness called the Great Plague of London spread through London. Sir William left the city to avoid the plague and went to Derby. He died there on August 6, 1666, when he was about 56 years old. He was buried in a church in Derby, where there is a monument to remember him.

Sir William did not have any children. His cousin, Charles Wheler, became the next baronet. However, Sir William and Charles had disagreed about how Sir William's money and property should be handled. Because of this, Sir William left most of his wealth to other people, and Charles only received a smaller amount of money each year.

Family Life

Sir William Wheler was married to Elizabeth Cole. She was the daughter of Michael Cole from Kensington. Elizabeth worked as a laundress for King Charles I. Sir William and Elizabeth did not have any children. Elizabeth died in the countryside and was buried in Westminster in 1670.