Sir John Pirie, 1st Baronet facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Pirie
1st Baronet
|
|
|---|---|
| Lord Mayor of London | |
| In office 1841–1842 |
|
| Sheriff of London | |
| In office 1831–1832 |
|
| Personal details | |
| Born | 1781 |
| Died | 26 February 1851 (aged 69–70) Champion Hill, Camberwell, London |
| Resting place | West Norwood Cemetery |
| Children | none |
| Occupation | Shipbroker |
| Known for | Financing establishment of South Australia |
Sir John Pirie (born 1781 – died 1851) was an important British businessman. He was a shipbroker, meaning he helped arrange for ships to carry goods for others. He was the biggest shipbroker in London during his time.
He also held very important jobs in London, like being the Lord Mayor of London. Sir John Pirie played a big part in helping to start the new colony of South Australia.
A Big Name in Shipping
Sir John Pirie was known as the largest shipbroker in London. This meant he was very good at connecting people who needed to ship things with the ships that could carry them. He helped many businesses move their goods around the world.
Helping Start South Australia
In the 1830s, Sir John Pirie became very interested in new ideas about how to set up colonies. He became a main leader and one of the biggest financial supporters of the South Australian Company. This company was created to help start the colony of South Australia.
He also helped other important companies, like the New Zealand Company and the East India Company.
One of the very first ships sent in 1836 to help start the new colony of South Australia was a small ship called the John Pirie. This ship was named after him.
Important Roles in London
Sir John Pirie was elected to two very important positions in London. He was chosen as the Sheriff of London for 1831–1832. Later, he became the Lord Mayor of London from 1841 to 1842.
When he finished his time as Lord Mayor in 1842, he was given a special honor. He was made a baronet, which is a title like "Sir" that can sometimes be passed down in a family. His full title became Sir John Pirie, 1st Baronet.
His Legacy
Sir John Pirie did not have any children, so his special title ended when he died. He passed away at Champion Hill in Camberwell, London, on February 26, 1851. Even though he had been involved with another cemetery company, he was buried at West Norwood Cemetery.
Today, two places in Australia are named after him: Pirie Street in the city of Adelaide and the city of Port Pirie.
