William Ward (goldsmith) facts for kids
William Ward was an English goldsmith (someone who makes things from gold) and financier (someone who manages money). He lived in London and was also involved in making glass.
William Ward was the youngest son of Edward Ward and Anne Havers. His family came from places like Bixley in Norfolk.
In 1598, William Ward started as an apprentice (a trainee) to Christopher Wace, a goldsmith in Cheapside, London. Later, William took over Wace's business. He became a successful goldsmith, even selling beautiful jewels to Queen Henrietta Maria, the wife of King Charles I. For example, in 1627, he sold her a special locket for £700 to be given as a gift.
Ward also helped set up a glass factory in Scotland in 1617. He paid for a skilled glassmaker from Venice, named John Maria de Aqua, to come and work there.
After a famous goldsmith named George Heriot passed away, William Ward bought some of his valuable collection of jewels. This purchase helped to provide money for the creation of Heriot's Hospital in Edinburgh, which was a school and hospital for children in need.
William Ward lived in Southwark, a part of London. He was an active member of his local community, even leaving money in his will for a special dinner for the church council.
William Ward's Family Life
William Ward was married twice and had children.
First Marriage: Elizabeth Humble
William Ward first married Elizabeth Humble, who passed away in 1616. She was the daughter of Richard Humble, a leatherseller.
Their children included:
- Humble Ward (born in 1612). He married Frances Sutton in 1628. Frances's grandfather, Edward Sutton, 5th Baron Dudley, arranged her marriage to Humble Ward. This was done to help pay off his large debts.
Second Marriage: Rose Rogers
William Ward later married Rose Rogers. Her sister, Katherine, was the mother of John Harvard. John Harvard is famous for being one of the founders of Harvard University in America.
