Henry Hyde

Henry Hyde (c. 1563 – 29 September 1634) was an English lawyer and member of Parliament. He was the father of Edward Hyde, 1st Earl of Clarendon (1609–1674), and thus was great-grandfather of two British monarchs, Queen Mary II and Queen Anne. He lived at Dinton and later at Purton, both in Wiltshire.

Origins Hyde was born circa 1563, the son of Lawrence Hyde I (d. 1590), MP, by his wife Anne Sybill.

Character Clarendon venerated his father's memory, describing him as the best of fathers and friends, and remarked that none of the honours he received through his life equalled that of being his father's son. His one surviving letter, to his brother Nicholas, suggests a kindly, good-humoured country gentleman, with a concern for the welfare of the poor not always shared by members of his class.

Marriage and children On 3 April 1597 he married Mary Langford, daughter of Edward Langford and Mary St. Barbe. Their children were: Anne Hyde (c.1598–?), also known as Jane Silverster. Elizabeth. Lawrence (1600–?). Henry (1601–1627). Mary (1603–?). Sibble (1605–?). Susan Hyde (c.1607–1656), spy for Charles II while exiled in France. Edward Hyde, 1st Earl of Clarendon (1609–1674), eldest son and heir, Lord Chancellor of England during the reign of Charles II. Nicholas (1610–1611).