William Spurstow (merchant) facts for kids
William Spurstow (died 1644) was an important English merchant and politician. He was a member of the English Parliament from 1640 until his death. He strongly supported the Parliamentary side during the English Civil War.
William Spurstow was born in Shropshire, England. His father was a shearman, which was someone who trimmed cloth. In 1597, William became a freeman of Shrewsbury, meaning he had special rights and privileges in the town.
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A Successful Merchant in London
William Spurstow later moved to London and became a very successful merchant. In 1606, he played a big part in creating a new law in Parliament. This law made it easier for Welsh cloth to be sold by removing a special seal requirement.
He joined the Worshipful Company of Mercers, which was a powerful group of merchants in London. He also became a director of the East India Company, a huge trading company that brought goods from far-off lands.
Standing Up to the King
In 1626, William Spurstow faced a challenge. He was put in prison because he refused to pay a "forced loan" demanded by the King. This was a time when many people disagreed with King Charles I about how the country should be run.
William was also part of two groups that were against the King and the official Church of England: the congregation of St Stephen Coleman Street and the Massachusetts Bay Company. These groups were known as Puritans, and they wanted to change the Church and how the country was governed.
William Spurstow's Time in Parliament
In November 1640, William Spurstow was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Shrewsbury. He served in what was called the Long Parliament. During his time as an MP, he worked on important committees. He continued to serve in Parliament until he passed away in 1644.
His Legacy and Wealth
When William Spurstow died in 1644, he was a very rich man. He had over £5,000 in cash, which was a huge amount of money back then! He also left money for good causes. For example, he gave £300 to his hometown of Shrewsbury to help poor people find work.
