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George Monoux
Lord Mayor of London
In office
1514–1515
Preceded by John Tate
Succeeded by William Butler
Member of the English Parliament
for City of London
In office
1523–1529
Preceded by
Succeeded by
  • Thomas Seymour
  • John Baker
  • John Petyt
  • Paul Withypoll
Personal details
Born by 1465
Died February 1544
Walthamstow, Essex,
Kingdom of England
Resting place St. Mary The Virgin Churchyard
Walthamstow, London Borough of Waltham Forest, Greater London, United Kingdom

George Monoux was an important English merchant and public servant who lived a long time ago, from around 1465 to 1544. He was born in Walthamstow, England. George Monoux became very successful in business, trading goods across Europe. He also held important positions in London, like being the Lord Mayor. He is remembered for being very generous, especially for helping to start a school and homes for the poor in his hometown of Walthamstow.

A Life of Public Service

George Monoux started his career as a merchant. He traded goods from Bristol to countries like France, Spain, and Portugal. In 1501, he became the Mayor of Bristol.

Moving to London

In 1507, George Monoux moved to London. He became an alderman for a part of the city called Bassishaw ward. He held this important job for 34 years until he died.

He was also a member of the Worshipful Company of Drapers. This was a powerful group for people who traded cloth. George Monoux was chosen to be the Master of the Drapers six times!

Important City Roles

George Monoux held many key positions in London's government:

  • In 1509, he became a Sheriff of London. Sheriffs helped keep order in the city.
  • In 1514, he was elected Lord Mayor of London. This was the most important job in the city. He was like the city's leader.
  • In 1523, he became a Member of Parliament for the City of London. This meant he helped make laws for the country.

Helping His Community

George Monoux was known for his generosity. He wanted to help people in his hometown of Walthamstow.

Starting a School and Almshouses

On June 15, 1527, George Monoux bought land in Walthamstow. He used this land to build homes for people who needed help, called almshouses. He also started a school there.

He set aside money to pay the teachers and a church clerk. The school was meant to teach up to 30 children. This special funding for the school lasted until 1548.

His Legacy Today

George Monoux died in February 1544 and was buried in Walthamstow. He had married twice, but he did not have any children who survived him.

The school he started is still around today! It is now known as Sir George Monoux College. The Monoux Hall almshouses in Walthamstow also continue his legacy of helping the community.

How to Say His Name

You might think his name is pronounced without the 'x'. However, old letters show his name was sometimes spelled 'Monneks'. This suggests that the 'x' was actually pronounced!

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