Walter Hervey (mayor) facts for kids

Walter Hervey was an important figure in London during the 1200s. He became the Lord Mayor of London in the 13th century, a time when England was ruled by King Henry III.

Who Was Walter Hervey?

Walter Hervey was an English man who lived in the 1200s. He is best known for serving as the Lord Mayor of London. This was a very important job, similar to being the leader of a big city today.

Becoming Mayor of London

Hervey became mayor around 1272. At that time, King Henry III was still on the throne. The king's son, Edward, who would later become king, was away on a long journey.

There was a big disagreement in London about who should be the next mayor. The city's leaders, called aldermen, wanted someone named Philip le Tayllor. But many regular citizens had a different idea. They strongly supported Walter Hervey. Because so many people wanted him, Hervey was chosen as mayor, even though the aldermen disagreed.

What Hervey Did as Mayor

During his time as mayor, Walter Hervey did something very important for the working people of London. He signed special documents called charters for different groups of craftspeople. These charters were like official agreements that helped protect the rights of workers. You could think of them as an early form of trade unions, which are groups that help workers get fair treatment and better conditions.

Charters for Workers

These charters were a big deal because they gave more power and protection to people who worked in various trades, like bakers, weavers, or carpenters. It meant they had more say in their work and how they were treated.

After Hervey's Time as Mayor

After Walter Hervey's term ended, a new mayor named Henry le Walleis took over. Henry le Walleis and another important person, Gregory de Rokesley, did not agree with Hervey's changes.

Charters Are Cancelled

Henry le Walleis and Gregory de Rokesley decided to cancel the charters that Hervey had created. This meant that the protections and rights Hervey had given to the craftspeople were taken away.

Walter Hervey tried to get his supporters to help save the charters, but it was too late. The new leaders had the support of the king, and Hervey's efforts did not succeed.

Hervey Leaves Office

Because of these disagreements, Walter Hervey was eventually removed from his position as an alderman. He was also told that he could no longer be involved in leading the city of London.

After this, there isn't much information about Walter Hervey. We know that he had a daughter named Anne, who later married a man named Thomas Woodchurch. Walter Hervey passed away in 1283.