Thomas Foote facts for kids

Sir Thomas Foote (born in 1598, died October 12, 1687) was a very rich businessman in London, England. He was a grocer, which meant he sold spices and other goods. He became a very important person in London, even serving as the Lord Mayor of London in 1649.

During a time called the Protectorate, he was given the title of knight by Oliver Cromwell, who was the leader of England then. Later, when the king returned to power, King Charles II made him a baronet. This was another special title.

Sir Thomas Foote's Life and Work

Thomas Foote was born in London. His parents were John Foote and Margaret Brooke. His grandfather, also named John Foote, was from a place called Royston.

Becoming a Leader in London

In 1646, Thomas Foote became a Sheriff of London. A sheriff was an important official who helped keep order in the city. Then, in 1649, he was chosen to be the Lord Mayor of London. The Lord Mayor is like the main leader of the city.

He also represented London in the English Parliament. This meant he was a voice for Londoners in the government. He served in the First and Second Protectorate Parliaments.

Special Titles and Honors

On December 5, 1657, Oliver Cromwell, the Lord Protector, gave Thomas Foote the title of knight. This was a big honor! However, when the king returned to power in 1660, this knighthood was no longer valid.

But Thomas Foote received another special title. On November 21, 1660, King Charles II made him a baronet. This was a new title that could be passed down in his family. It was decided that after his death, the title would go to his son-in-law, Sir Arthur Onslow, 1st Baronet.

His Later Years

Sir Thomas Foote passed away on October 12, 1687, when he was 89 years old. He was buried in All Saints Church in West Ham, which was in Essex at the time. Since he did not have any sons, his son-in-law, Arthur Onslow, became the next baronet.

Sir Thomas Foote's Family

Sir Thomas Foote married Elizabeth Boddicot on December 16, 1625. Elizabeth was a widow. They had four daughters:

• Priscilla Foote: She married Sir Francis Rolle on January 23, 1654.
• Mary Foote: She became the second wife of Sir Arthur Onslow, 1st Baronet. They had several children together.
• Sarah Foote: She married twice. Her first husband was Sir John Lewis, 1st Baronet. After he passed away, she married Denzil Onslow, who was Arthur's younger brother.
• Elizabeth Foote: She was the second wife of Sir John Cutler, 1st Baronet. They had one daughter, but she died before her father.