John Alleyn (mercer) facts for kids
Sir John Alleyn (who sometimes spelled his name Alleyne) was an important English merchant and politician. He lived a long time ago, in the 1500s. He was so respected that he served two times as the Lord Mayor of London, which was a very big job!
Who Was John Alleyn?
John Alleyn was the oldest son of Richard Alleyn from a town called Thaxted. He had two brothers, Christopher and another John. It was not unusual back then for families to have two sons with the same first name.
His Amazing Career
John Alleyn became a very successful mercer in London. A mercer was someone who traded fine fabrics like silk and velvet. Because he was so good at business, he was chosen to be one of the Sheriffs of London in 1518. Sheriffs helped keep law and order in the city.
He was first elected as the Lord Mayor of London in 1525. This was a huge honor! He did such a good job that he was elected again for a second term in 1535. The Lord Mayor was like the main leader of the city.
Later, King Henry VIII himself chose Sir John Alleyn to join his Privy Council. This was a group of trusted advisors who helped the King make important decisions for the country.
Sir John also gave a lot of money to help rebuild the Hospital of St Thomas of Acre in the 1500s. This hospital was an important place that helped people. He was later buried there. He also left a beautiful golden collar for future Lord Mayors of London to wear. This collar is still a symbol of the Lord Mayor's office today!
His Legacy
Sir John Alleyn passed away in 1544. He was buried in a special chapel he had built at St Thomas Acres. He had children who continued his family line. His elder son, Christopher Alleyn, inherited enough wealth to become a respected member of society. Christopher even became a Member of Parliament and married the daughter of an important person named William Paget, 1st Baron Paget.
Part of Sir John Alleyn's wealth also went to his brother, John Alleyn, junior. This brother was an ancestor of the Alleyn baronets, which is a special title that passes down through families.
