William Hewett (c. 1500 – 13 May 1567) was an English merchant and civic official who served as Lord Mayor of London in 1559. A member of the Worshipful Company of Haberdashers, Hewett was a prominent figure in the commercial and political life of mid‑16th‑century London.
Early life and career
The exact date of Hewett’s birth is uncertain; he is believed to have been born around 1500, likely in or near London. He entered the mercantile trade as a haberdasher, joining the Haberdashers’ Company, one of the City’s great livery companies. Through his commercial activities, Hewett accumulated considerable wealth and gained a reputation for reliability in trade, which facilitated his entry into civic service.
Civic offices
Hewett’s involvement in municipal government began with his election as an alderman for the ward of Bassishaw. He served as a sheriff of the City of London in 1555–1556, a role that involved the enforcement of law and order and the collection of certain city revenues. In 1559, he was elected Lord Mayor of London, the chief magistrate of the City. His mayoralty coincided with the early reign of Queen Elizabeth I, a period marked by religious settlement and economic expansion.
Parliamentary service
In addition to his municipal duties, Hewett represented the City of London as a Member of Parliament (MP) in the Parliament of 1559. His participation in the legislative assembly reflected the growing influence of merchant interests in national politics during the Tudor period.
Later life and legacy
Sir William Hewett was knighted by Queen Elizabeth I in 1560, an honor that recognized his service to the Crown and the City. He continued to be active in the governance of the Haberdashers’ Company, contributing to charitable initiatives and the regulation of trade practices. Hewett died on 13 May 1567 and was buried at St Mary‑le‑Bow, a parish church with strong connections to the City’s mercantile community.
Historical significance
Hewett’s career exemplifies the rising prominence of the merchant class in Tudor England, particularly in the governance of London. His progression from a haberdasher to Lord Mayor and knight underscores the fluidity of social mobility for successful businessmen in the 16th century. His parliamentary role further illustrates the integration of commercial interests into the legislative process of the period.
