William Hampton (mayor) facts for kids

Sir William Hampton (who died in 1480) was an important English person. He was a Lord Mayor of London and a Member of Parliament. He didn't have children. He left his money to his niece, Alice Hampton. She was a special kind of religious woman called a vowess and someone who gave a lot to charity, known as a benefactor.

The Life of William Hampton

William Hampton worked as a fishmonger, selling fish. In 1462, he became a Sheriff for the City of London. A Sheriff was like a chief law enforcement officer.

Protecting London

William Hampton was made a knight because he helped defend London. He was an alderman (a city council member) when a person called Thomas Neville attacked London in 1471. William Hampton helped protect the city from this attack.

Becoming Lord Mayor

From 1461 to 1462, William Hampton was one of London's four Members of Parliament. These people represented London in the country's government. In September 1472, he was chosen to be the Lord Mayor of London. This was a very important job, like being the leader of the city.

His Business and Family

William Hampton made his money by selling fish. He even supplied fish to King Henry VI from 1454 to 1459. He became very successful. He was even able to offer "loans" to Edward IV, who was king at the time. These loans were often requested by the king. For example, each alderman had to give £10, and the mayor had to give £30.

William Hampton was married twice. However, he did not have any children. When he died, he left all his money to his niece, Alice Hampton. She became a vowess, which means she made special religious promises. She also became a benefactor, using the money to help others.

William Hampton was buried at a church called St Christopher-le-Stocks. This church no longer exists today.