Edward Bromfield facts for kids

Sir Edward Bromfield was an important English merchant who became the Lord Mayor of London in 1636. He held many key positions in London's government and business groups during the 1600s.

Who Was Edward Bromfield?

Edward Bromfield was a successful merchant in the City of London. A merchant is someone who buys and sells goods, often in large amounts, to make money. He was a member of a special business group called the Worshipful Company of Leathersellers. These "Worshipful Companies" were like powerful trade guilds or associations that controlled specific trades in London, like leatherworking or fishing.

Bromfield was the leader, or "Master," of the Leathersellers Company from 1625 to 1626.

Early Roles in London Government

In 1626, Edward Bromfield was chosen as an Alderman for the City of London. An Alderman was a senior member of the city's council, helping to govern the city. He represented the Dowgate area, which is called a "ward."

From 1626 to 1627, he also served as a Sheriff of London. Sheriffs were important officials who helped maintain law and order and carried out legal duties in the city.

Becoming Lord Mayor

In 1636, Edward Bromfield joined a different powerful business group, the Worshipful Company of Fishmongers. This was a common practice for merchants who moved into different areas of trade.

Later that year, he reached a very high position: he was elected Lord Mayor of London. The Lord Mayor is the head of the City of London Corporation, a bit like the mayor of a modern city, but with a long history and special powers. At the same time, he was also the "Prime Warden" of the Fishmongers Company, which means he was its main leader.

In 1637, he became an Alderman for another area, Walbrook ward, and was also given the title of "Sir" when he was knighted. This meant he was recognized by the King for his service.

Other Important Positions

Sir Edward Bromfield continued to serve in important roles. From 1637 to 1638, he was the Governor of the Irish Society. This group was involved in developing and managing land in Ireland. He also served as a Colonel of the Trained Bands from 1638 to 1642. The Trained Bands were like a local militia, made up of citizens trained for military defense.

Sir Edward Bromfield's Family

Sir Edward Bromfield married Margaret Payne. His oldest son, John, later became a baronet. A baronet is a person who holds a hereditary title, which means it can be passed down through the family, similar to a knight but with a higher rank. Sir Edward's daughter also married another important person, Sir Henry Hudson, 1st Baronet.