Samuel Birch (Lord Mayor of London) facts for kids
Samuel Birch (born 1757, died 1841) was an important leader in London, England. He became the Lord Mayor of London, which is like being the main boss of the city. Before that, Samuel Birch started out as a pastrycook, making delicious treats. He was also known for writing plays!
Early Life and Family
Samuel Birch was the son of Lucas Birch. His father owned a famous pastry and sweet shop at 16 Cornhill in London. This shop was very old, started way back when King George I was in charge. Samuel learned the family business by becoming an apprentice to his father after finishing school. He went to a private school in a place called Newington Butts.
In 1778, when he was young, Samuel married the daughter of Dr. John Fordyce. They had a large family together, with thirteen children!
Becoming a City Leader
Samuel Birch started getting involved in city government. On December 21, 1781, he was chosen to be part of the common council. This group helped make decisions for the city. By 1789, he became a deputy for the Cornhill area.
In May 1807, he was elected as an alderman for the Candlewick area. This was another important role in the city's government. Samuel loved to learn and improve his speaking skills. He often went to a debating club where he practiced speaking in public. He gave his first public speech there in 1778.
Samuel was a strong supporter of the government led by William Pitt. He spoke out often at city council meetings. When the French Revolution began, he was one of the first to suggest creating volunteer army groups in London. At first, no one supported him, but later, his idea was adopted. He even became a leader of one of these volunteer groups, called the 1st regiment of Loyal London Volunteers.
Important Roles and Views
In 1811, Samuel Birch became one of the Sheriffs of London. Then, on November 9, 1814, he took on the very important job of Lord Mayor of London.
Even though he usually supported the main government party (the Tories), he disagreed with the Corn Bill of 1815. This bill would have stopped foreign grain from being brought into England freely. Samuel believed in "Free Importation, Peace and Plenty" for everyone. A special medal was even made in his honor to celebrate his stand against the bill.
During his time as Lord Mayor, a marble statue of King George III was placed in the Guildhall, which is a big meeting hall in London. Samuel Birch himself wrote the words for the statue's plaque.
One of his last actions as Lord Mayor was to help start the London Institution in Finsbury Circus on November 4, 1815.
Later Life
Samuel Birch continued his family's pastry business for many years. In 1836, he sold the shop to new owners. He retired from his role as an alderman in 1810.
Samuel Birch passed away at his home in London on December 10, 1841, when he was 84 years old. His grandson, who was also named Samuel Birch, became a very famous expert on ancient Egypt at the British Museum.
