Thomas Knollys

Sir Thomas Knollys or Knolles (died 1435) was an English businessman in London who was active in both local and national government.

Origins Born about 1350, he was once thought to be descended from the soldier Sir Robert Knollys but modern sources give his father as Richard. There were obviously close links with Sir Robert, who named Thomas as one of his executors in 1389.

In addition to his London properties, in 1391 he bought and later extended a country estate at North Mimms in Hertfordshire.

He was buried in St Antholin's beside his wife and his will made on 20 May 1435 was proved on 11 July 1435 at Lambeth.

Family By 1371 he had married Joan (died 1431) who in their sixty years together had nineteen children, of whom four sons and three daughters survived their father. His eldest son Thomas (died 1446), who inherited his businesses and properties, was through his younger son Richard the ancestor of the courtier Sir Francis Knollys.