Edward Ironside (Lord Mayor of London) facts for kids
Edward Ironside (born February 25, 1705 – died 1753) was an important British banker who became the Lord Mayor of London in 1753.
Early Life and Banking Career
Edward Ironside was born in Westminster, London. His parents were Edward Ironside and Mary Gatton. When he was 15 years old, in 1720, he started learning the banking business from his father. This was called being an "apprentice." He spent seven years learning the trade.
In 1728, Edward gained the "freedom of the city." This meant he had the right to work and live as a citizen in London. The next year, he joined the Goldsmiths Company. This was a special group, or guild, for people who worked with gold and silver, and it was important for bankers too. Edward Ironside then opened his own banking business at a place called the Black Lion on Lombard Street. In 1730, he married Anne Newman.
Public Service in London
Edward Ironside became involved in London's government. In 1745, he was chosen as an alderman for the Cordwainer ward. An alderman is like a city council member who helps manage the city. He was also part of a group of aldermen known as 'Benn’s Club', led by Alderman William Benn.
From 1748 to 1749, Ironside served as a Sheriff of London. A sheriff was a key official responsible for law and order and other civic duties in the city.
Lord Mayor of London
On November 9, 1753, Edward Ironside reached a very high position: he became the Lord Mayor of London. This is a very important role, like being the leader of the city. However, he was very ill with a painful condition called gout at his inauguration ceremony. He was so unwell that he had to be carried in a special chair called a Sedan Chair. Alderman Benn, his friend, rode in the official State Coach and helped perform the duties for the day in his place.
Later Life
Sadly, Edward Ironside's health did not get better. He died shortly after becoming Lord Mayor, on November 27, 1753. He was buried in the church of St. Edmund, King and Martyr in Lombard Street. Edward Ironside had four sons and one daughter. One of his sons, also named Edward, became known for writing about places and their history. Another son, Gilbert, became a Colonel in the Bengal Army.
