Vezey Strong facts for kids

Sir Thomas Vezey Strong (born October 5, 1857 – died October 3, 1920) was an important English businessman and public servant. He is best known for serving as the Lord Mayor of London, a very important role, and also as a Privy Counsellor, which meant he advised the King.

He was born in London, in a place called St Andrew Holborn parish. He was the third son of John Strong. Sir Thomas became very successful as a wholesale paper merchant, meaning he sold large amounts of paper to other businesses. He was very proud of his connection to the City of London, often saying he was not only born there but never left.

Sir Thomas Strong's Public Service

Sir Thomas Vezey Strong dedicated much of his life to public service in London. He held several important positions that helped run the city.

Becoming an Alderman and Sheriff

In 1897, he became an Alderman for Queenhithe. An Alderman is a senior member of a city council. Later, from 1904 to 1905, he served as a Sheriff of London. The Sheriffs of London have a long history and help with various duties in the city, including ceremonial roles.

Lord Mayor of London

The most significant role Sir Thomas held was Lord Mayor of London from 1910 to 1911. This is a very old and respected position, acting as the head of the City of London Corporation, which governs the historic heart of London. The Lord Mayor represents the city and its businesses.

Royal Honours and Recognition

Sir Thomas received several special honours from the King for his service. In 1905, he was made a Knight Bachelor, which means he was given the title "Sir." In 1911, he became a Knight Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (KCVO). This honour is given by the King or Queen for personal service to the monarch. Later, in 1918, he was made a Knight Commander of the British Empire (KBE) for his contributions during World War I. In 1911, he was also made a Privy Counsellor, which meant he became a formal advisor to the King.

Other Important Roles

Beyond his city government roles, Sir Thomas Vezey Strong was involved in other significant organizations.

Prison Commissioner and Military Service

He served as the Chairman of His Majesty's Prison Commissioners for Holloway Prison. This meant he helped oversee the running of this important prison. Until 1911, he was also an Honorary Colonel of the 1st London Brigade, Royal Field Artillery, showing his connection to the military.

Supporting Healthcare

Sir Thomas was also the Chairman of the London Temperance Hospital from 1899 until his death. This hospital focused on treating patients without using alcohol, which was a specific approach to healthcare at the time.

Family Life

In 1900, Sir Thomas Strong married Elizabeth Mary, who was known as "Lillie." She was the daughter of James Hartnoll. The Strongs lived at a place called Ganwic, near Barnet. They did not have any children of their own. However, they adopted two children: Violet Beatrice Pollard and John Strong. Sir Thomas Strong passed away in 1920 after being ill for a long time. His wife, Lady Vezey Strong, lived until 1951.