John Heron (courtier)

John Heron (died 1521) was an English courtier and administrator during the reigns of King Henry VII and King Henry VIII. He is best known for serving as Treasurer of the Chamber to Henry VIII for almost the entirety of the king's reign until Heron's death.

Heron's origins are somewhat obscure, but he rose through the ranks of the royal household through his administrative abilities. As Treasurer of the Chamber, he was responsible for managing the king's privy purse, a significant source of funds used for personal expenses, gifts, rewards, and various secret payments. His role involved meticulous record-keeping and dispensing funds according to the king's instructions.

Heron was a trusted and influential figure, intimately involved in the financial affairs of the early Tudor court. His accounts provide valuable insights into the spending habits and priorities of Henry VIII in his early years. He was also involved in various commissions and appointments relating to royal finances.

His tenure as Treasurer came to an abrupt end with his death in 1521. The records of his accounts and the handover to his successor, Sir William Compton, are a valuable source of information for historians studying the period.