William Withers facts for kids

Sir William Withers (born around 1654 – died January 31, 1720) was an important English businessman and politician. He lived in Fulham, Middlesex. Sir William was a linen draper, which means he sold fine fabrics like linen. He was also a member of the Tory Party, a political group in England. He served in the English and British Parliaments from 1701 to 1715. A big achievement for him was becoming the Lord Mayor of London from 1707 to 1708.

Early Life of Sir William

William Withers was born in London. His father, also named William Withers, was a linen draper too. His mother was Sarah Cornish. The family name was originally spelled "Wyther," and Sir William was thought to be the first to spell it "Withers."

In 1680, just like his father, William became a "freeman" of the Worshipful Company of Fishmongers. This was a powerful trade group in London. He married Margaret Hayes in 1682. Her father was Thomas Hayes from Chertsey Abbey in Surrey.

Sir William's Career and Public Service

This old picture shows support for the new Tory members of parliament for the City of London. Sir William Withers is one of them, along with Sir Richard Hoare, Sir George Newland, and Sir John Cass.

Sir William Withers was involved in many important businesses and public roles. From 1697 to 1698, he was an Assistant at the Royal African Company. In 1698, he became a Director of the New East India Company. This company traded goods from Asia.

That same year, he was chosen as an Alderman for the Farringdon Within area of London. An Alderman is a senior member of a city council. In 1699, King William III made him a knight, so he became "Sir" William Withers. This happened when he was part of a group from London who congratulated the King. In 1700, he became the main leader of the Fishmonger's Company.

Becoming a Member of Parliament

In 1701, Sir William was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for London. Even though he was a Tory, he sometimes worked with the Whig party, especially to help the New East India Company.

From 1701 to 1702, he served as Sheriff of London. This job meant he was in charge of elections, so he couldn't run for MP himself during that time. He tried again in 1705 but didn't win.

Lord Mayor of London

In 1705, Sir William became a Colonel in the City militia, which was like a local army. In 1706, he became the Governor of the Irish Society for life. He was almost chosen as Lord Mayor in 1706, but then he was chosen for the job in 1707. He served as Lord Mayor of London from 1707 to 1708.

Because he was Lord Mayor, he was elected as an MP for London again in December 1707. He was re-elected in 1708. After his time as Mayor ended in 1708, he became the President of the Bridewell and Bethlehem Hospitals. These were important hospitals in London.

Sir William continued to be active in public life. He was a Director of the United East India Company from 1709 to 1710. He also got his command back in the City militia in 1710. He was re-elected as an MP for London in 1710 and again in 1713. However, when the Whigs gained power in 1715, he lost his seat in Parliament. By 1719, he was appointed Governor of St Thomas' Hospital.

Later Life and Family

Sir William Withers passed away on January 31, 1720. He was buried at All Saints Church, Fulham. He and his wife, Margaret, had two children named William and Sarah.