John Pecche facts for kids

John Pecche was an important merchant from the 1300s. He held several big jobs in London. He was a Sheriff of London in 1352, which is like a top law enforcement officer. Later, he became the Lord Mayor of London for 1361–62. He also served as a Member of Parliament (MP) four times between 1361 and 1372. This meant he helped make laws for England.

Pecche was a very successful businessman. He was part of a powerful group called the Fishmongers. This was a guild for people who sold fish. He bought a lot of land in different parts of England, like Kent and Surrey. He also owned many properties in London.

Business and Challenges

In 1373, King Edward III gave John Pecche a special right. Pecche was the only person allowed to sell sweet wines in London. This was a big deal because it meant he controlled the wine market.

A Business Dispute

However, this special right led to some problems. Pecche was accused of charging extra money for himself on each barrel of wine. He was also collecting money for the King's treasury, called the Exchequer. This situation caused a big argument among other merchants.

Losing His Position

The House of Commons, which is part of Parliament, also looked into the matter. They were questioning the King's policies. In August 1376, John Pecche lost his important job as an alderman. He also lost his "freedom of the City," which meant he lost special rights as a London citizen.

Royal Pardon

John Pecche had business ties with a very powerful person named John of Gaunt. Gaunt was a son of King Edward III. Because of Gaunt's influence, John Pecche received a special royal pardon. In January 1377, Parliament also reversed the decision against him. Even with the pardon, the city leaders in London did not fully welcome him back.

Family Life

John Pecche had a son named William Pecche (1359–1399) with his first wife, Ellen. After John Pecche passed away, his wife Mary married Sir William Moigne.

See also

• List of Sheriffs of the City of London
• List of Lord Mayors of London
• City of London (elections to the Parliament of England)