William Holles facts for kids
Sir William Holles (born around 1471, died 1542) was a very successful English merchant. He started his career as an apprentice to a mercer, which was someone who traded fine fabrics like silk. He worked his way up to become the head of his company and later, the Lord Mayor of London in 1539.
Sir William's Journey to Success
Sir William Holles joined the Worshipful Company of Mercers, a powerful group of merchants, in 1499. He became the leader of this company in 1528. His career continued to grow, and he was chosen as the Sheriff of London in 1527. The Sheriff was an important official who helped keep law and order in the city.
In 1533, King Henry VIII himself made William Holles a knight. This was a great honor! Then, in 1539, he reached the highest position in London when he became the Lord Mayor of London. As Lord Mayor, he had many important duties. For example, in 1540, he officially welcomed Anne of Cleves to London. She was on her way to marry King Henry VIII.
Sir William was a very rich merchant. He owned several houses in London, including one in Bishopsgate Street where he lived during his time as Lord Mayor. He also bought many large estates in different parts of England, like Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.
What Sir William Left Behind
Sir William Holles passed away in London in 1542. He was buried in St Helen's Church, Bishopsgate, where a special monument was put up to remember him. His family inherited his many properties, which helped them become very wealthy over the years.
In his will, Sir William left money to help build the Coventry Cross. This beautiful monument was finished in 1544. Even though the original cross was taken down much later, a replica was built in 1976 to honor its history.
Sir William's Family
Sir William Holles was the son of Thomas Holles from Coventry. He married Elizabeth Scopham, and they had three sons and two daughters. Lady Elizabeth Holles died in 1543. She also left money in her will to build six almshouses, which were homes for people in need, in her parish.
His children included:
- Thomas Holles
- Sir William Holles (1509–1591), who was also a very important person. He developed a large estate called Haughton Hall.
- Francis Holles
- Anna Holles
- Joanna Holles
