Richard Smith (died 1516) facts for kids

Richard Smith (born around 1453, died 1516) was an important person in England during his time. He was a politician, meaning he helped make decisions for the country. He also worked closely with the royal family as a courtier.

A Successful Cloth Merchant

Richard Smith started his career as a successful cloth merchant. He sold fabrics and clothes. He had businesses in two important places: the City of London and Reading. This showed he was good at business.

Working for the Royal Family

Richard Smith also worked for the royal family. He held several small jobs for the King and Queen. In the late 1480s, he became a "Yeoman of the Robes" for Queen Elizabeth of York. This meant he was a trusted helper who looked after the Queen's personal needs and clothing.

He also worked as a "bailiff" in two places. A bailiff was someone who managed land or collected money for a landlord. Richard was the royal bailiff at Swallowfield Park. He also worked as a bailiff for Sir Francis Knollys at Caversham.

Richard Smith, the MP

Richard Smith was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Reading. An MP is someone who represents the people of an area in the country's government, called the Parliament of England. He was elected three times: in 1497, 1504, and 1512. This shows that the people of Reading trusted him to speak for them in important government meetings.