John Swynnerton facts for kids

Sir John Swynnerton (died 1616) was an important English politician. He served in the House of Commons, which is like today's Parliament, from 1601 to 1611. He also held the very important job of Lord Mayor of London in 1612.

Who Was Sir John Swynnerton?

Sir John Swynnerton was born in England. His father was also named John Swynnerton, and their family came from a place called Dudleston in Shropshire. We don't know exactly when he was born, but we know he passed away on December 8, 1616.

Starting His Career

Sir John was a member of the Worshipful Company of Merchant Taylors. This was a powerful group of merchants and tailors in London. Being part of such a company was a common way for people to get involved in the city's business and politics back then.

In 1601, he was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for a town called Petersfield. An MP is someone elected to represent a specific area in the House of Commons, where laws are made.

Important Roles in London

Sir John took on several key roles in the City of London.

• In 1602, he became an alderman for Cripplegate ward. An alderman was a senior official who helped govern a part of the city.
• From 1602 to 1603, he served as a Sheriff of London. Sheriffs were important officials responsible for law and order in the city.
• He was made a knight on July 26, 1603. This meant he was given the title "Sir" by the King, recognizing his service.

Serving in Parliament Again

After his first time as an MP, Sir John was elected again in 1604. This time, he represented East Grinstead. He continued to serve as an MP until 1611.

From 1606 to 1607, he also became the Master of the Merchant Taylors Company. This was the highest position in his old merchant group.

Becoming Lord Mayor of London

One of Sir John Swynnerton's most important achievements was becoming the Lord Mayor of London in 1612. The Lord Mayor is the head of the City of London Corporation, which governs the historic "Square Mile" of London. It's a very old and respected position.

In 1616, the year he died, he was also a colonel in the South Regiment Trained Bands. These were like local citizen armies that helped keep order.

His Final Resting Place

Sir John Swynnerton passed away in 1616. He was buried at a church called St Mary Aldermanbury in London.