Henry Chowne

Chowne was born in Kent where his family lived since the 15th century. As a younger son, he was sent on apprenticeship to Sir John Cordell and acted as his factor at Smyrna by 1639. He was also a stockholder in the East India Company and he used his position and influence within the company to procure for his son a post at Surat in India.

Chowne inherited the family estate, including property in Horsham in 1651. He was also active as politician and sat in the House of Commons at various times between 1659 and 1668.

He was married to Barbara Middleton, a daughter of Thomas Middleton of Horsham in 1642 with whom he had seven sons and daughter.

Chowne died at the age of about 54 and was buried at Horsham.