John St. John, known as the 2nd Baron St. John of Bletso, left an indelible mark on English history during his lifetime, which spanned until 1596. Born to Oliver St. John, the 1st Baron St. John of Bletso, and Agnes Fisher, John’s destiny was intertwined with the noble lineage of his family. His ascent to the barony came in 1582 when he succeeded his father after his passing.

John St. John’s involvement in the realm of politics and governance was noteworthy. He served as the Member of Parliament for Bedfordshire from 1563 to 1567, a position that allowed him to represent the interests of his constituents in the political arena.

In January 1585, he faced a pivotal moment when he was entrusted with the role of the keeper of Mary, Queen of Scots, at Tutbury Castle. This appointment was not without its challenges, as John was initially reluctant to accept the commission. He engaged in lengthy discussions with Lord Burghley before eventually taking on the responsibility. His tenure in this role continued into 1586 when he became one of the peers who participated in the judgment of Mary, Queen of Scots, finding her guilty.

John St. John’s contributions extended beyond the political sphere. He served as the Lord Lieutenant of Huntingdonshire, a role he held from approximately 1587 until his passing. This position required him to oversee the administration and governance of the county, adding to his list of responsibilities.

In his personal life, John St. John married Katherine Dormer around 1575. Katherine was the daughter of Dorothy and Sir William Dormer of Wing, Buckinghamshire, adding another layer of nobility to his family connections. Unfortunately, John passed away on October 23, 1596, without male heirs, marking the end of his direct lineage. He found his final resting place in Bletsoe, where he was buried.

John St. John’s legacy lived on through his family, as his daughter Ann married William Howard, the 3rd Baron Howard of Effingham. Additionally, his widow continued to be a prominent figure even after his death, with her own passing occurring in 1615. She found her final resting place in the hallowed halls of Westminster Abbey.

In summary, John St. John, the 2nd Baron St. John of Bletso, was a significant figure in the English aristocracy of his time. His involvement in politics, governance, and the noble circles of his era left an enduring mark on the annals of history, and his lineage continued to play a role in the unfolding events of the period.