William Barnham facts for kids

William Barnham (born in 1606, died in March 1675) was an important English politician. He served as the mayor of Norwich, a city in England. He was also a Member of Parliament, which means he was elected to represent people in the House of Commons in 1659 and 1660.

Early Life

William Barnham was likely born in Thetford, another town in England. His father was Peter Barnham. Sometimes, people have confused him with other people named William Barnham. For example, he was not the William Barnham born in 1613, nor was he his grand-nephew, William Barnham (1651-1718). Neither of those other Williams were ever mayor of Norwich.

Political Career

William Barnham worked as a hosier in Norwich, which means he sold stockings and socks. He became an alderman, a senior member of the city council. In 1652, he became the mayor of Norwich.

During the English Civil War, William Barnham supported the Parliament. He held various city jobs starting in 1646 and continued through the time when England was a republic, without a king. In 1659, he was elected as a Member of Parliament for Norwich. This meant he represented the city in the government.

In 1660, he was elected again as an MP for Norwich without anyone running against him. He tried to get elected again in 1661 but did not win. He was later removed from his alderman position. This was because he was a strong Presbyterian, a type of Christian, and would not agree to certain religious changes.

William Barnham gave money to charities in Thetford. He also left property to his relatives. No other members of his family became Members of Parliament after him.

Family and Later Life

William Barnham was married three times. His first wife's name is not known. His second wife was Elizabeth Windham. She was buried in Norwich in 1690. His third wife was Mary Booty, who passed away in 1659.

William Barnham died when he was 61 years old. He was buried on March 22, 1675, at a church in Norwich.