William Rowe (Lord Mayor of London) facts for kids
Sir William Rowe was an important English merchant who lived a long time ago. He held two very big jobs in the city of London: he was the Sheriff in 1583 and later the Lord Mayor in 1592. He was also in charge of a group called the Worshipful Company of Ironmongers. Sir William was made a knight in 1593, which meant he was given the title "Sir." He passed away on October 23, 1593.
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Sir William Rowe's Life and Work
Sir William Rowe was a successful merchant. A merchant is someone who buys and sells goods, often in large amounts, to make money. Being a merchant in London during his time meant he was likely involved in trade, possibly with iron goods, given his connection to the Ironmongers.
Important Roles in London
Sir William held two very important positions in the city of London.
- Sheriff of London: In 1583, he became the Sheriff of London. A sheriff in those days was a powerful official. They helped keep law and order and managed some of the city's finances.
- Lord Mayor of London: Even more important, in 1592, Sir William became the Lord Mayor of London. This was the highest office in the city. The Lord Mayor was like the chief leader of London, overseeing its government and representing its people.
The Worshipful Company of Ironmongers
Sir William was also the Master of the Worshipful Company of Ironmongers. These "Worshipful Companies" were like powerful trade guilds. They were groups of people who worked in the same business, like ironworking. Being the "Master" meant he was the leader of this important group.
Becoming a Knight
In 1593, Sir William Rowe was knighted. This was a special honor given by the monarch (the king or queen). When someone was knighted, they earned the title "Sir" before their name. It showed they were respected and had done important things for their country or city.
Sir William's Family Connections
Sir William Rowe was part of a family that had other important people in London's government. His cousin, Sir Thomas Rowe, was also a Lord Mayor of London in 1568. Sir Thomas's son, Henry Rowe, also became Lord Mayor in 1607. This shows that the Rowe family played a big role in London's history.
His Children
Sir William Rowe was married to Jane Lucar. They had several children:
- Nicholas Rowe: He lived in Muswell Hill, Middlesex. He married Elizabeth Rivers.
- William Rowe: He married Cicely Rowe.
- Julia(n) Rowe: She married Francis Babington.
- Suzan Rowe: She married Richard Welby and later Julian Muffett.
