Thomas Cambell facts for kids

Sir Thomas Cambell (born around 1536, died 1614) was an important English merchant. He held many key roles in London's government and business. He is best known for becoming the Lord Mayor of London in 1609. This was a very high position in the city.

Sir Thomas Cambell, Lord Mayor of London in 1609

Sir Thomas Cambell's Life and Career

Sir Thomas Cambell was a successful merchant in the city of London. He was also a member of the Worshipful Company of Ironmongers. This was a powerful group, or "guild," for people who worked with iron.

He held many important jobs for the city:

• He worked as an auditor for London several times. An auditor checks the city's money and accounts.
• In 1599, he became an alderman for the City of London. An alderman was a senior member of the city council.
• In 1602, he was chosen as a Sheriff of London. Sheriffs helped keep law and order in the city.
• He was also part of the committee for the East India Company. This was a very big company that traded goods from faraway lands. He even led the company as its governor for a few years.

In 1603, he was made a knight. This meant he received the title "Sir" from the King. In 1604, he became the Master of the Ironmongers Company.

Becoming Lord Mayor

In 1609, Sir Thomas Cambell was elected Lord Mayor of London. This was a huge honor. During his time as Mayor, he helped organize a special event. It was a grand show, or "pageant," on the River Thames. This event was for Henry Frederick, Prince of Wales, who was the son of the King. The pageant was called London's Love to Prince Henry.

After being Lord Mayor, he continued to serve the city. He became an alderman for different areas of London. He also served as Master of the Ironmongers Company again in 1613.

Sir Thomas Cambell's Family

Sir Thomas Cambell married Alice Bugle. Her father was also a merchant in London.

Sir Thomas had several children who also became important:

• His son, James Cambell, later became Lord Mayor of London in 1629.
• Another son, Robert Cambell, had two sons who became "baronets." This was another special title given by the King.
• His daughters married other important men, including John Gore, who also became a Lord Mayor.