James Harvey (merchant) facts for kids

Sir James Harvey (died 1583) was an important English merchant. He became the Lord Mayor of London in 1581, which was a very high position in the city.

Early Life & Beginnings

James Harvey was born in Cotwalton, a small place near Stone in Staffordshire. His father was William Harvey. As he grew up, James became a successful businessman. He bought a large house called Wangey House in Dagenham in 1571. Later, in 1577, he also bought a manor (a large country estate) in Winterbourne Monkton, Wiltshire. These purchases showed how well he was doing in his business.

A Career in London

Sir James Harvey was an ironmonger. This means he was a merchant who dealt with iron goods, like tools, weapons, and other metal items. He was a member of the Worshipful Company of Ironmongers, which was a powerful group of iron merchants in London. These companies were like professional guilds that helped control trade and support their members.

He was chosen to be the Master of the Ironmongers' Company several times: in 1572, 1576, 1580, and 1582. Being a Master was a big honor and showed he was a respected leader among his peers.

Serving the City

Sir James Harvey also took on important roles in the government of London:

• In 1571, he was elected an alderman. An alderman was a senior member of the city council, helping to make decisions for London.
• In 1573, he became the High Sheriff of London. The High Sheriff was a key official responsible for law and order in the city.
• His most important role came in 1581 when he was elected Lord Mayor of London. The Lord Mayor was the head of the city's government, similar to a modern-day mayor, but with even more power and influence in those times.

Family Life

Sir James Harvey married Agnes Gent. Her father was Count Sebastian Gent from Antwerp, a city in modern-day Belgium. Together, Sir James and Agnes had six children: three sons and three daughters.

Their children were:

• Sir Sebastian Harvey, who followed in his father's footsteps. He also became Master of the Ironmongers' Company in 1600 and was Lord Mayor of London in 1618.
• James Harvey, who lived at Wangey in Essex. He married Elizabeth Radcliffe.
• William Harvey
• Clerkin, who married Alexander Avenon.
• Elizabeth
• Agnes

Later Years

Sir James Harvey passed away in 1583. He was buried at St Dionis Backchurch, a church in London. His life showed how a successful merchant could rise to become one of the most important figures in the city of London during the 16th century.