Peter Du Cane, the elder facts for kids

Peter Du Cane (born March 17, 1645 – died September 16, 1714) was an important person in London during the late 1600s and early 1700s. He came from a family of Huguenots, who were French Protestants. His family had to leave their home country, Flanders, because they were being treated badly for their religion. They found safety in England.

Peter Du Cane's family first settled in Canterbury during the time of Queen Elizabeth I. Later, his grandparents moved to London and became English citizens. Peter Du Cane himself was born in England. He grew up to become a respected leader in the City of London. He was an Alderman, which was a type of city official, and also an elder in the French Protestant Church in Threadneedle Street.

Who Was Peter Du Cane?

Peter Du Cane was a notable figure in London. He was born into a family that had faced challenges. His ancestors were French Protestants called Huguenots. They had to flee their homes in Flanders. This was because of religious persecution by the Duke of Alba.

A Family's Journey to England

The Du Cane family were brave refugees. They left their home country to find religious freedom. They first found a new home in Canterbury, England. This was during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. Later, the second generation of the family moved to London. They became citizens of England. This allowed them to build new lives.

Peter Du Cane's Important Roles

Peter Du Cane followed in his family's footsteps. He became a respected member of society. In 1666, he was chosen as an Alderman of the City of London. This was a significant position. He also served as an elder in the French Protestant Church. This church was located on Threadneedle Street.

What is an Alderman?

An Alderman was a very important person in the City of London. They were like a senior council member. Aldermen helped to govern the city. They made decisions about how the city was run. They also represented the people living in their area. It was a role that showed great trust and responsibility.

Helping the French Protestant Church

As an elder, Peter Du Cane helped lead the French Protestant Church. This church was very important. It provided a place for other Huguenot refugees to worship. It also helped them settle into their new lives in London. Being an elder meant he helped guide the church community.

His Family and Son's Legacy

On January 6, 1675, Peter Du Cane married Jane Booth. Jane was the daughter of Richard Booth. Richard was also a grocer and an Alderman in London. Peter and Jane had one son, Richard Du Cane.

Their son, Richard Du Cane, became a very important person. He was a leading British politician and businessman. He helped create two very famous institutions. These were the Bank of England and the East India Company. These companies played a huge role in Britain's history. They shaped its economy and trade for many years.