William Gerard (died 1609) facts for kids

Memorial, St Mary's, Harrow on the Hill

William Gerard was an important English politician who lived from about 1551 to 1609. He came from Harrow, a town in Middlesex, England. He was a member of the English Parliament, serving in the House of Commons. He was elected several times between 1584 and 1593.

William Gerard's Life

Early Life and Education

William Gerard was the oldest son of a man also named William Gerard. His mother was Dorothy Page.

He went to famous schools. First, he studied at Harrow School. Then, he attended Trinity College, Cambridge. He earned two degrees from Cambridge: a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in 1565 and a Master of Arts (MA) in 1572.

After college, he joined Gray's Inn in 1572. This was a place where people trained to become lawyers. He officially became a lawyer, or was "called to the bar," in 1580.

Political Career

William Gerard served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for the area of Wigan. He was elected during the time of Queen Elizabeth I. He served in Parliament in 1584, 1586, and 1593.

From 1591, he also worked as a Justice of the Peace in Middlesex. This job involved keeping law and order in the local area.

William Gerard passed away on August 23, 1609. He was buried in Harrow.

William Gerard's Family

William Gerard married a woman named Dorothy. She was the daughter of Anthony Ratcliffe, who was an important city official called an alderman in London.

William and Dorothy had a large family. They had eight sons and six daughters. One of their sons, Gilbert, became his heir.