Ralph Freeman (Lord Mayor) facts for kids

Ralph Freeman was an important English merchant who lived a long time ago. He became the Lord Mayor of London in 1633. He passed away on March 16, 1634.

Who Was Ralph Freeman?

Ralph Freeman was a successful merchant in the city of London. He was a member of a group called the Worshipful Company of Clothworkers. This was a special guild for people who worked with cloth.

His Work with Trading Companies

Ralph Freeman was involved with several big trading companies. He was part of the committee for the East India Company for different periods. These included 1608 to 1611, 1612 to 1615, and 1617 to 1619. He also served on the Court of Assistants for the Levant Company from 1614 to 1615 and again from 1616 to 1623. These companies were very important for trade in England during his time.

Roles in London City Government

Ralph Freeman held many important positions in London's government. From 1613 to 1615, he worked as an auditor for the City. This meant he helped check the city's finances.

In 1620, he was chosen to be Sheriff of London. He officially served as Sheriff from 1623 to 1624. The Sheriff was a key official who helped keep law and order.

In November 1622, he was elected an alderman for the Bishopsgate area of London. An alderman was a senior member of the city council. Later, in 1633, he became an alderman for the Cornhill area.

Becoming Lord Mayor

The biggest role Ralph Freeman held was Lord Mayor of London. He was elected to this very important position in 1633. The Lord Mayor is the leader of the City of London Corporation.

Ralph Freeman's Family Life

Ralph Freeman married a woman named Joan Crouch. She was the daughter of John Crouch from Layston. They had several children together. Sadly, many of their sons passed away when they were young.

By the time Joan died in 1615, they had only one daughter left, named Jane. Jane married George Sondes, 1st Earl of Feversham in 1620. Jane herself passed away in 1637. She left behind two sons, George and Freeman.

Where Did Ralph Freeman Live?

Sir Ralph Freeman was also the Lord of the Manor of Aspenden. This was a large estate located in Hertfordshire, England.