Edward Clarke (Lord Mayor of London) facts for kids

Sir Edward Clarke (died 1703) was an important English merchant from Brickendon, Hertfordshire. He had the special job of Lord Mayor of London from 1696 to 1697.

Early Life and Business

Edward Clarke was born in Heighington, Lincolnshire. His father, Thomas Clarke, was a yeoman, which meant he owned and farmed land. In 1645, when Edward was young, he started learning the trade of a mercer. A mercer was someone who sold fine fabrics, especially silk. He learned from his uncle, George Clarke, who had a shop in Cheapside, a busy street in London.

Edward Clarke worked hard and became a very successful merchant. He was part of the Worshipful Company of Merchant Taylors, which was a powerful group for tailors and merchants in London. He worked with another merchant named Henry Sherbrooke, selling silk.

Home at Brickendon

In 1682, Edward Clarke bought a large estate called Brickendon. It was about three miles from Hertford. This manor was known as a beautiful place. It had nice views towards Hertford and woods nearby. Edward Clarke likely built or improved the main house there, making it very grand.

Public Service and Achievements

Edward Clarke started getting involved in London's government. In 1675, he became a Common Councillor for the Farringdon Within area of the City of London. This was an important step in public service.

He served as a Deputy for his ward several times. On October 1, 1689, he was chosen as an Alderman for the Bread Street ward. An Alderman was a senior member of the city council. Just a few weeks later, on October 29, 1689, he was knighted, which meant he was given the title "Sir" by the King.

In 1690, Sir Edward Clarke was elected Sheriff of London. The Sheriffs helped the Lord Mayor and kept law and order in the city. He was also the Master of the Merchant Taylors' Company from 1690 to 1691.

His career continued to grow. In 1694, he was chosen as a Director of the Bank of England. This was a very important role, showing his skill in finance.

The biggest honor came in 1696 when he became the Lord Mayor of London. This was the most important job in the City of London, like being the city's leader. He served for one year, from 1696 to 1697.

Later Life

Sir Edward Clarke passed away on September 1, 1703. He was buried at St Mathew Friday Street church. His son, Thomas Clarke, inherited the Brickendon estate. Thomas later became a Member of Parliament for Hertford. Sir Edward's daughter, Jane, married a man named Maynard Colchester.