Lionel Maddison facts for kids

Lionel Maddison (born 1537, died 1624) was a very important person in the city of Newcastle. He served as the Mayor of Newcastle multiple times during his life.

He was the son of Rowland Maddison from Unthank Hall.

Lionel Maddison's Public Service

Lionel Maddison held several important jobs in Newcastle. He was the Sheriff of Newcastle in 1584 and 1585. A Sheriff was like a chief law officer for the city. Later, he became the Mayor of Newcastle three times: from 1593 to 1594, again in 1605, and finally from 1617 to 1618. The Mayor was the main leader of the city.

Celebrating Queen Elizabeth I

As Mayor, Lionel Maddison helped organize big celebrations. One special event was for the 35th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth becoming queen. This party included musicians, loud cannon salutes, and a grand feast for everyone.

Meeting Important Visitors

In 1594, Lionel Maddison wrote to a powerful person named Robert Cecil. He wrote about a goldsmith named Jacob Kroger who had stolen jewels from the Scottish queen, Anne of Denmark. He also wrote about the movements of a Scottish rebel, Francis Stewart.

Later that year, in September 1594, Maddison hosted a special banquet. This was for two ambassadors, Walraven III van Brederode and Jacob Valke, who had traveled from Stirling. They had attended the baptism of Prince Henry in Scotland. In Newcastle, they enjoyed a fancy meal with baked rabbit, fish, and even swan! They also had London beer and sweet treats, all while listening to music played by the town's musicians called "waits."

His Business and Royal Visit

Lionel Maddison was also a successful businessman in the coal industry. He owned a coal mine at Marshall Lands in Whickham. He even gave important information about the taxes paid on coal in Newcastle.

In 1617, James VI and I, who was King of both Scotland and England, visited Newcastle. Lionel Maddison met the King on April 23rd and gave him a golden bowl filled with gold coins as a gift. The King stayed at George Selby's house, and Selby became known as "The King's Host." The King also visited Heaton Hall. On May 4th, Lionel Maddison hosted another grand banquet for the King.

His Family Life

Lionel Maddison passed away on December 6, 1624. He was buried in St Nicholas' church in Newcastle.

Lionel Maddison was married to Jane Seymour, who died in 1611. They had several children, including:

• Henry Maddison (1574-1634): He also became the Mayor of Newcastle. Henry married Elizabeth Barker.
  • Henry and Elizabeth had many children, including another Lionel Maddison. This younger Lionel Maddison also became Mayor of Newcastle and was even knighted by King Charles I in 1633.