Ralph Josselyn facts for kids
Sir Ralph Josselyn was an important English politician from the 1400s. He held many big jobs, including being the Lord Mayor of London two times. He was also made a Knight of the Bath. He passed away on October 25, 1478.
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Ralph's Family History
Ralph Josselyn was born to Jeffrey Josselyn and Katherine Bray. His family lived at Hide Hall in Sawbridgeworth, Hertfordshire. Ralph's older brother, Thomas, had descendants who became the Earls of Roden.
Ralph's Political Journey
Since Ralph's older brother inherited their family's land, Ralph moved to London. There, he started his career.
Joining the Drapers' Company
Ralph became a member of the Worshipful Company of Drapers. This was a powerful group for people who sold cloth. He even became the Master of this company in 1457 and 1458.
Becoming a City Leader
In 1456, Ralph became an alderman for the Cornhill area of London. Aldermen were important city officials. Two years later, in 1458, he was chosen as one of the Sheriffs of the City of London. Sheriffs helped keep law and order.
First Term as Lord Mayor
In 1464, Ralph Josselyn was elected Lord Mayor of London for the first time. This was a very important role. During this time, he was made a Knight of the Bath. This special honor happened at the crowning of King Edward IV's queen, Elizabeth Woodville.
Staying Active in London
Even after his first term as mayor, Ralph kept working for the city. In 1467, he was elected to Parliament. He represented the City of London there.
In 1471, London was attacked by Thomas Neville. Ralph Josselyn helped gather a group of people to defend the city. They successfully stopped Neville's attack.
Second Term as Lord Mayor
Ralph was elected Lord Mayor again in 1476. During this second term, he started a huge project. He worked to fix the city's walls, which were in bad shape. He got lots of bricks and lime for the repairs. He also made sure money was collected to pay for the work. A special team of citizens helped watch over the repairs. Ralph also took steps to stop unfair practices by bakers and food sellers in the city.
Ralph's Family Life
It seems Ralph Josselyn was married three times. His first wife was named Margery. His second wife, Philippa, was the daughter of Philip Malpas, another London official. Ralph's third wife was Elizabeth Barley. She outlived him. Ralph Josselyn did not have any children who survived him. His nephew, George Josselyn, became his heir.
His Final Resting Place
Ralph Josselyn passed away on October 25, 1478. He was buried at St Swithin's Church in London. He had given money to this church during his life.
Ralph in a Play
Ralph Josselyn appears in a play called Edward IV. This play was written by Thomas Heywood a long time ago. In the play, Ralph is shown as a funny, clumsy character. This is quite different from how he was in real life.
