John Frederick (London MP) facts for kids
Sir John Frederick (born 25 October 1601 – died March 1685) was an important English merchant and politician. He served as a Member of Parliament (MP) and even became the Lord Mayor of London.
Early Life and Career
Sir John Frederick started his career as a successful merchant in the City of London. He was a member of the Worshipful Company of Barber-Surgeons, which was an important trade group for barbers and surgeons at the time.
In 1653, he was chosen as an alderman for Vintry ward in London. An alderman was a senior member of the city council. The next year, in 1654, he became the leader, or Master, of the Barber-Surgeons company. He was also elected Sheriff of London for 1655 to 1656. The Sheriff was a key official responsible for law and order in the city.
From 1657 to 1658, Sir John was part of a committee for the East India Company. This was a very powerful trading company that brought goods from faraway lands. He was Master of the Barber-Surgeons company again in 1658.
Political Life and Lord Mayor
In 1660, Sir John Frederick began his national political career. He was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Dartmouth. This meant he represented the people of Dartmouth in the Convention Parliament, which was a special parliament at the time.
He was honored by the King and became a knight on 26 June 1660, earning the title "Sir." He continued his work with the East India Company committee from 1660 to 1661.
In 1661, he was again elected as an alderman, this time for Coleman Street. He held this important position until he passed away. In the same year, he joined another major trade group, the Worshipful Company of Grocers. Later that year, he achieved a very high honor: he was elected the 326th Lord Mayor of London. This is one of the most important civic roles in the city.
Later Years and Legacy
After serving as Lord Mayor, Sir John Frederick continued to be active in public life. In 1662, he became the president of Christ's Hospital, a famous school and charitable institution. He held this role until his death.
From 1663 to 1679, he served as an MP for the City of London in the Cavalier Parliament. He was also Master of the Grocers Company from 1677 to 1678.
Sir John Frederick passed away at the age of 83 and was buried on 19 March 1685. His family continued to be important figures. He was the grandfather of Sir John Frederick, 1st Bt, and Jane Murray, Duchess of Atholl.
