Francis Wyatt Truscott facts for kids
Sir Francis Wyatt Truscott (born 1824, died 1895) was an important person in London. He served as the Lord Mayor of London from 1879 to 1880. He was also part of a historic group called the Worshipful Company of Stationers. His son, George Wyatt Truscott, also became Lord Mayor later on.
Sir Francis Truscott's Early Life and Family
Sir Francis Truscott was born in 1824 in a town called Truro in Cornwall, England. His parents were James Truscott and his wife. He later went to college at King's College London.
In 1847, he married Eliza Freeman. They had three children together:
- George Wyatt (1857–1941), who later became the first Baronet in his family.
- Another son.
- Louisa Edith, who married Homewood Crawford. He later became known as Sir Homewood and worked as the City Solicitor.
Sir Francis Truscott lived in several places during his life. These included a large property in East Grinstead, West Sussex, a home called Essex Lodge in Upper Norwood, and a residence on Victoria Street in London.
Sir Francis Truscott's Career and Public Service
Sir Francis Truscott was a successful businessman. He was a wholesale stationer, which means his company, Messrs James Truscott and Sons, sold large amounts of paper and writing supplies. His business was located in Suffolk Lane, London.
He became involved in the local government of London. In 1858, he was chosen to be a member of the Court of Common Council for the Dowgate Ward. This council helped manage the city.
In 1871, he served as Sheriff of London and Middlesex. This was an important role in the city's legal system. Sir Francis was also interested in politics and tried to become a Member of Parliament for the Dudley area in 1865, representing the Conservative Party, but he was not successful.
Sir Francis Truscott was also a dedicated Freemason. This is a social and charitable organization. He held a high position as the Grand Bard of England within the Freemasons. When he was Lord Mayor, he was also appointed as the Worshipful Master of a special lodge called No. 1 Grand Masters Lodge.
In November 1880, during his time as Lord Mayor, some special statues were put up at Temple Bar. These statues were of mythical creatures called Griffins. They were sometimes jokingly called "Truscott's Folly" by some people. The Duke of Albany helped to unveil them. Sir Francis Truscott was also the first President of the London Society of Artists.
He received a special honor and was appointed a Knight Bachelor. This meant he could use the title "Sir" before his name. In 1883, he was chosen to be the Master of the Worshipful Company of Haberdashers, another historic London group that originally represented merchants selling small items like ribbons and needles.
Sir Francis Truscott passed away on March 3, 1895, at the age of 70. He was buried in Norwood Cemetery.
