Sir William Treloar, 1st Baronet facts for kids
Sir William Purdie Treloar (born January 13, 1843 – died September 6, 1923) was an important English businessman. He served as the Sheriff of London from 1899 to 1900. Later, he became the Lord Mayor of London from 1906 to 1907. He is best known for starting a special fund to help children with physical disabilities, which he called the "Cripples' Fund."
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Sir William's Life and Work
Sir William Treloar was born in London. He went to school at King's College School. He became the head of a business called Treloar and Sons, which sold fabrics and small items. He was also a director and trustee for T. Cook and Son.
Becoming a City Leader
In 1892, Sir William was chosen as an Alderman for the City of London. An Alderman is a senior member of the city council. In 1899, he became a Sheriff of the City of London. This role helps the Lord Mayor with their duties. Finally, in 1906, he was elected Lord Mayor of the City of London. This is a very important leadership role in London.
Books by Sir William
Sir William also enjoyed writing. He wrote several books, including:
- Ludgate Hill: Past and Present (1881)
- Prince of Palms (1884)
- With the Kaiser in the East, 1898 (1915)
- Wilkes and the City (1917)
- A Lord Mayor's Diary 1906-7 (1920)
Helping Children as Lord Mayor
When Sir William was Lord Mayor, he started a special project called the "Cripples' Fund." He wanted to help young people with physical disabilities. He asked people for donations and raised £10,000 for his Alton Hospital.
Opening Treloar Schools
Because of his efforts, in 1908, he opened Treloar College and Treloar School near Alton, Hampshire. These schools were created to help young people with physical disabilities get an education and learn skills for life. Today, these schools are part of the Treloar Trust. This charity is a leading center in the UK for educating and supporting young people with physical disabilities.
Continuing Connections
The Treloar Trust still has strong links with the City of London. Every new Lord Mayor of the City of London automatically becomes a trustee of the Treloar Trust. They also visit the college and school to see the important work being done.
Visit to Cornwall
During his time as Lord Mayor, Sir William visited Cornwall. This was the county where his family came from. He was given the "Freedom of Helston" at Helston Guildhall. He also had the special honor of leading the traditional Furry Dance on May 8, 1907.
Honors and Recognition
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Sir William received many honors for his work and service.
Becoming a Knight and Baronet
- On March 29, 1900, Queen Victoria made him a Knight bachelor at Windsor Castle. This meant he could use "Sir" before his name.
- On July 17, 1907, he was given an even higher honor. He was made a baronet, which means he became Sir William Purdie Treloar, 1st Baronet. This title could be passed down in his family.
Other Recognitions
- On May 8, 1907, he received the "Freedom of the Borough" in both Helston and Truro, Cornwall.
- On July 8, 1907, Sir William opened Simmons Park in Okehampton, Devon. A special Swiss-style building called Chalet Treloar was built by the river in his honor.
Sir William died at his home in Upper Norwood on September 6, 1923, when he was 80 years old. He was buried next to his wife in Shirley, Surrey.
