William Craven, 1st Earl of Craven (1608–1697)
William Craven, 1st Earl of Craven | |
|---|---|
William Craven, 1st Earl of Craven c. 1647 | |
| Lord Lieutenant of Middlesex | |
| In office 1670–1697 | |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 26 June 1608 (baptised) London |
| Died | 9 April 1697 (aged 88) Drury Lane, London |
| Resting place | St Bartholomew's Church, Binley |
| Parent | William & Elizabeth Craven |
| Alma mater | Trinity College, Oxford |
| Occupation | Soldier and courtier |
| Military service | |
| Battles/wars |
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William Craven, 1st Earl of Craven, PC (26 June 1608 – 9 April 1697) was a courtier and soldier from London. One of the wealthiest peers in England, he spent much of his fortune supporting the exiled Elizabeth of Bohemia. Although he did not participate in the Wars of the Three Kingdoms, Craven was sympathetic to the Royalist cause, and lent large sums of money to Charles II of England prior to the Stuart Restoration in May 1660. He was rewarded with a variety of government posts, including Lord Lieutenant of Middlesex.
Craven died in London on 9 April 1697, and was buried in Binley, Coventry.