Christopher Clitherow facts for kids

Sir Christopher Clitherow (born 10 January 1578 – died 11 November 1641) was an important English merchant and politician. He was a member of the House of Commons, which is like a part of today's Parliament, from 1628 to 1629. He also held the very important job of Lord Mayor of London in 1635.

Early Life and Business

Christopher Clitherow was born in London. His father, Henry Clitherow, was a successful businessman and a leader in the Worshipful Company of Ironmongers. This was a powerful group, or guild, for people who worked with iron. Christopher followed in his father's footsteps and also became a member of the Ironmongers Company.

He was very active in the East India Company, which was a huge trading company that brought goods from far-off lands like India. He joined the company's main committee in 1604. Christopher Clitherow was also interested in exploring. He supported efforts to find the Northwest Passage, a sea route through North America to Asia. He became a leader (Master) of the Ironmongers Company twice, in 1618 and 1624.

Public Service in London

Clitherow began his public service in London in 1625. He was chosen as an alderman for the Aldersgate area. An alderman was an important local official who helped run the city. In the same year, he also became a Sheriff of London, a role that involved keeping law and order.

He continued to rise in the East India Company, becoming its Deputy Governor in 1625. In 1627, he moved to represent the Billingsgate area as an alderman, a position he held until he died. He also helped look into how money was being spent to fight pirates from places like Algiers and Tunis.

Member of Parliament and Lord Mayor

In 1628, Christopher Clitherow was elected as a Member of Parliament for the City of London. He served in the House of Commons until 1629. At that time, King Charles I decided to rule without Parliament for eleven years.

A big moment in his career was in 1635 when he became the Lord Mayor of London. This was a very high honor. To celebrate, a special parade and show called "London's Harbour of Health and Happiness" was performed. Two years later, in 1637, he was knighted by the King at Hampton Court, which meant he was given the title "Sir."

From 1636 to 1640, he was the President of Christ's Hospital, a famous school. He also set up two special scholarships at Oxford University to help students study there.

Later Life and Legacy

From 1638 until his death, Sir Christopher Clitherow served as the Governor of the East India Company. This was the highest position in the company, showing how important he was in trade and business.

Sir Christopher Clitherow passed away at the age of 63 in 1641. He was buried in the church of St Andrew Undershaft in London.

He was married twice. One of his daughters married Sir Thomas Trollope, 1st Baronet. Another daughter, Rachel, married Dr William Paule, who became the Bishop of Oxford. His son, James, bought a large estate called Boston Manor.