Richard Gildart facts for kids

Richard Gildart by Joseph Wright of Derby

Richard Gildart (1673–1770) was an English merchant who lived in Liverpool. He held important positions in the city, serving as Mayor of Liverpool three times and as a Member of Parliament for Liverpool. He was also involved in the trade of goods and people from Africa.

Who Was Richard Gildart?

Richard Gildart was a well-known figure in Liverpool during the 1700s. He was a successful merchant, which means he bought and sold goods for a living. His work helped Liverpool grow into an important port city. He also played a big role in the city's government and business.

Early Life and Moving to Liverpool

Richard Gildart was born in 1673 in Middleham, a town in Yorkshire, England. His parents were James Geldart and Elizabeth Sweeting. In the 1690s, when he was in his twenties, Richard moved to Liverpool. This city was becoming a busy place for trade and business.

On November 2, 1697, Richard became a "freeman" of the Liverpool Corporation. Being a freeman meant he had special rights in the city, like being able to trade freely and vote in local elections. Around 1707, he married Ann Johnson. Her father, Thomas Johnson, was also a very important businessman in Liverpool, known for his involvement in the tobacco trade.

A Leader in Liverpool

Richard Gildart was a respected leader in Liverpool. He held two very important public jobs: Mayor of Liverpool and Member of Parliament.

Serving as Mayor

Richard Gildart was elected Mayor of Liverpool three times. This was a very important job, like being the main leader of the city. He served as Mayor in:

• 1714
• 1731
• 1736

As Mayor, he would have helped manage the city's daily life, its finances, and its growth.

Representing Liverpool in Parliament

From 1734 to 1754, Richard Gildart was a Member of Parliament (MP) for Liverpool. This meant he represented the people of Liverpool in the national government, which met in London. As an MP, he would have helped make laws and decisions for the whole country, while also looking out for the interests of Liverpool.

Involvement in Trade

As a merchant, Richard Gildart was involved in many types of trade. This included the trade of goods and people from Africa. In 1752, he became a founding member of a group called the African Company of Merchants. This company was set up to manage trade between Britain and parts of Africa. In 1758, he was also chosen to be part of their executive committee, which meant he helped make important decisions for the company.

Richard Gildart passed away on January 25, 1770, at the age of 96.

Images for kids

• 

  Richard Gildart by Joseph Wright of Derby