Robert Foley (ironmonger) facts for kids
Robert Foley was an important businessman in England during the 1600s. He was known as an ironmonger, which means he organized the making and selling of iron products. His father, Richard Foley, was a very famous ironmaster in the west Midlands, someone who made iron. Robert continued his family's connection to the iron business, but in a different way.
Contents
Robert Foley: Ironmonger and Businessman
Robert Foley was born in 1624 in Stourbridge, a town in England. His father, Richard Foley, was one of the most important ironmakers of his time. Robert was different from his brothers, who also became ironmakers. Instead, Robert chose to be an ironmonger. This meant he focused on getting finished iron goods made and then selling them.
Early Life and Family Business
Robert's father, Richard Foley, was a very successful ironmaster. He made a lot of iron. Robert might have taken over the part of his father's business that dealt with selling finished iron goods. His older brother, Thomas Foley, took over the actual ironworks where iron was made.
After the English Restoration, which was when the king returned to power in England, Robert Foley got an important job. He signed a contract with the Navy Board. The Navy Board was in charge of the Royal Navy. Robert's job was to supply iron products to several of the Navy's shipyards. This was a big deal for his business.
Land and Property
Robert received his house in Stourbridge and land in Netherton, near Dudley, from his father. He likely dug for coal on his land at Yorks Park, close to Netherton, around 1660. However, he let other people expand the mines into nearby areas. In 1669, he bought the manor of Kenswick in Knightwick himself.
Public Service
In 1671, Robert Foley held an important public position. He became the High Sheriff of Worcestershire. A High Sheriff was a very important official in a county. They were responsible for keeping law and order and helping with legal matters.
Later Life and Legacy
Robert Foley married Anne Blurton in 1645. They had a son, also named Robert Foley, who continued the family name. Robert later married Elizabeth Duppa.
Robert Foley died while he was on a business trip. He traveled from his home in Stourbridge to Bristol, and then to London. He passed away at his inn in London in 1676.
