Sir John Perring, 1st Baronet facts for kids
Sir John Perring, 1st Baronet (born 1765 – died 1831) was an important person in London. He was a Member of Parliament (MP) and served as the Lord Mayor of London in 1803. He was also a successful banker. Later in his life, he faced financial difficulties. In 1808, he was given the special title of baronet.
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Who Was Sir John Perring?
John Perring was born around 1765. He was the oldest son of Philip Perring, who was a serge maker (someone who made a type of fabric). His mother was Susanna Legassick. Her family were wealthy cloth merchants. John Perring's uncle, Peter Perring, bought a large estate called Membland in Devon. Sir John Perring lived at Membland Hall for many years.
His Role in London's Government
John Perring became an alderman in the City of London in 1798. This was an important role in the city's government. In 1800, he was chosen as one of the Sheriffs of the City of London.
Becoming Lord Mayor of London
On November 9, 1803, Perring was named the Lord Mayor of London. This was a very important position. At the time, Britain was facing a big threat from Napoleon Bonaparte and the Napoleonic Wars. The country was worried about a French invasion.
The Recorder of London, John Silvester, said that it was vital for a trustworthy person to be Lord Mayor. He warned Perring that "The keys of the Metropolis are placed in your hands, at the moment when the enemy are at the gates." This showed how serious the situation was.
Dealing with the Threat of Invasion
During his time as Lord Mayor, Perring was very involved in preparing for a possible French invasion. He even found that a military battery (a place with cannons) had been built on his own land in Devon. He worked with military leaders to sort out these issues.
In May 1804, Perring presented flags to ten regiments of London soldiers. This happened at Blackheath. He was joined by important people like the Duke of York. This event showed the city's readiness to defend itself.
After Being Lord Mayor
After his time as Lord Mayor, Perring continued his public service. He was elected as a Member of Parliament for New Romney in 1806. He later represented the Hythe constituency in Parliament for several years.
In 1808, Perring helped organize a group to raise money for Emma, Lady Hamilton. She was a close friend of the famous naval hero Lord Nelson.
Perring was a banker and led a firm called John Perring, Shaw, Barber & Co. However, his bank faced problems during a financial crisis in 1825. This crisis caused him to lose his estates and much of his wealth.
Family Life
In 1790, Sir John Perring married Elizabeth Cowell. They had two sons and three daughters:
- Sir John Perring, 2nd Baronet
- Phillip Perring
- Elizabeth Perring
- Jane Perring
- Laura Perring
Later Years
Sir John Perring passed away in 1831 at the age of 65.
Images for kids
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The Lord Mayor of London disembarking at the Royal Naval Hospital, Greenwich, on 18 May 1804
