John Roysse facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Roysse
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_by_unknown_artist,_in_the_Amey_Theatre.jpg)
Photograph of a portrait copy of John Roysse at Abingdon School by unknown artist
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| Born | 1500 / 1501 Abingdon, Berkshire
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| Died | 1571 London
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| Nationality | British |
| Occupation | Mercer, benefactor and financier |
| Known for | Benefactor of Abingdon School |
John Roysse was an important English businessman who lived a long time ago, from about 1500 to 1571. He was a mercer, which means he sold fancy fabrics like silk and velvet. But he is most famous for being a benefactor (someone who gives money to help others) of Abingdon School in Abingdon, England. He helped make sure students could get a good education.
Contents
John Roysse's Life and Work
Not much is known about John Roysse's early life. He was likely connected to the Roysse family from East Hagbourne. People believe he went to the abbey school in Abingdon. This school was located near the old Abingdon Abbey.
What Was a Mercer?
John Roysse's main job was being a mercer. This meant he traded in expensive cloths. He sold beautiful materials like silk and velvet. Besides selling cloth, he also lent money to people. He was also a member of the Mercers' Company. This was a powerful group for merchants in London.
How John Roysse Helped Abingdon School
John Roysse made a big difference for Abingdon School. On January 31, 1563, he signed an important document. This document, called an indenture, had 31 rules. It explained how he would pay for a brand new schoolroom.
The Roysse Room
John Roysse was 63 years old in 1563. He wanted the new schoolroom to be special. So, he decided it should be 15 feet wide and 63 feet long. He also wanted 63 students to be able to study there for free. This new schoolroom was built on Bridge Street. It was on the south side of the old Abingdon Abbey gateway.
This schoolroom was used for about 300 years! In 1870, Abingdon School moved to a new location. This new place is where Abingdon School is today, near Albert Park. Until the 1960s, many people still called it Roysses School. The original 1563 room is still standing today. It is now part of the Abingdon Guild Hall and is known as the Roysse Room.
See also
- List of Old Abingdonians
