William Ryder (mayor) facts for kids
Sir William Ryder (died 30 August 1611) was an important English merchant and politician. He served as the Lord Mayor of London in the year 1600. As mayor, he played a key role in helping to stop a difficult situation known as the Essex challenge. He did this by publicly stating that the actions of the Earl of Essex were wrong and against the government. This quickly caused many of Essex's supporters to leave him.
Who Was Sir William Ryder?
Sir William Ryder was a member of the Haberdashers' Company. This was one of the important trade groups in London, called livery companies. These companies were like guilds that helped control different trades and crafts in the city.
His Important Roles
Ryder held several important jobs in London's government:
- He was a Sheriff of the City of London in 1592. A sheriff helped keep law and order in the city.
- He became an Alderman in 1595. Aldermen were senior members of the city council.
- His most important role was Lord Mayor of London from 1600 to 1601. The Lord Mayor was the head of the city's government.
Family Life
Sir William Ryder was married to Elizabeth, who was the daughter of Richard Stone. They had a son named Ferdinando, who sadly passed away before his father. Sir William also had two daughters:
- Mary, who married Sir Thomas Lake, an important government official called a Secretary of State.
- Susan, who married Sir Thomas Caesar, a Member of Parliament and a judge.
Sir William Ryder was given the title of Knight in 1601. This was a special honor given by the King or Queen.
Leyton Grange Manor
In 1609, after his brother Edward Ryder passed away, Sir William gained ownership of a large estate called Leyton Grange. This estate was located in Essex. Interestingly, this same estate had once belonged to Sir Oliver Cromwell. He was the uncle of the famous Oliver Cromwell, who later became a very powerful leader in England.
Sir William Ryder passed away on 30 August 1611. After his death, the Leyton Grange estate was passed down to his daughters.
