What are the key biographical details of Sir Richard Levett, including his birth and death dates and locations?

Sir Richard Levett was born in 1629 in Ashwell, Rutland, and died on January 20, 1711, in Kew, Surrey, England. He was an English merchant and politician who served as the Lord Mayor of London in 1699.

What is the origin of the Levett surname, and what was the family's historical background?

The Levett surname originates from the village of Livet in Normandy, France, reflecting the family's Anglo-Norman lineage. Although they were once a powerful family, they had lost much of their medieval wealth by the time Richard Levett was born.

What was the father's profession and religious affiliation, and how did it impact Richard Levett's early life?

Richard Levett's father was an intruding minister in Ashwell, Rutland, who held Puritan sympathies. He was ejected from his position in 1660 following the Stuart Restoration when the legitimate incumbent returned. This situation meant Richard and his brother Francis had to rely on their own resources from a young age.

How did the Levett brothers, Richard and Francis, begin their business careers?

Despite their lineage, Richard and Francis Levett were middle-class entrepreneurs. They started as haberdashers, trading goods like tobacco and textiles. They imported these items into England and sold them to chapmen at various fairs across the country.

Describe the expansion of the Levett brothers' business empire.

The Levett brothers' business grew significantly, especially as the British Empire expanded. They began using their own ships for importing goods and established a vast trading network. Their firm eventually became one of England's largest, dealing in a wide array of products.

Was Sir Richard Levett involved in the Atlantic slave trade?

Yes, like many London merchants of his era, Sir Richard Levett was involved in the Atlantic slave trade. His business oversaw the transportation of African slaves from West African ports for sale in the English colonies of Virginia and Maryland.

What was Sir Richard Levett's role in key financial institutions of his time?

Sir Richard Levett was a significant figure in London's financial world. He was one of the first directors of the Bank of England and was also an early investor in what would become Lloyd's of London, the renowned insurance marketplace.

What civic positions did Sir Richard Levett hold in the City of London?

Sir Richard Levett progressed through several important civic roles. He served as Master of the Haberdashers' Company, was elected a City Alderman, acted as Sheriff for the year 1691/92, and culminated his civic career as the Lord Mayor of London from 1699 to 1700.

What notable building project was Sir Richard Levett involved in?

As Master of the Haberdashers' Company, Sir Richard Levett played a key role in the construction of Sir Robert Aske's Hospital. The architect for this project was his friend, Dr. Robert Hooke.

Where did Sir Richard Levett live, and what properties did he own?

Sir Richard Levett lived in Cripplegate, London, from where he managed his business and mayoral duties. He also owned two country homes in Kew, including the Dutch House (now Kew Palace), along with substantial estates surrounding them.

Who was Sir Richard Levett's wife, and what was her involvement in philanthropy?

Sir Richard Levett was married to Mary Crispe. She was known for her significant contributions to religious causes and was recognized by Edmund Calamy, a nonconformist churchman, as a great friend and a generous donor to religious and educational initiatives.

How did Sir Richard Levett's family life connect with prominent figures like Samuel Pepys?

Sir Richard Levett was acquainted with many prominent individuals of his time, including the diarist Samuel Pepys. Pepys mentioned Levett in his diaries, indicating they socialized and that Levett was a trusted figure whose presence could bring ease of mind regarding business matters.

What was the estimated financial scale of Sir Richard Levett's business by the early eighteenth century?

By the early eighteenth century, the firm of Sir Richard Levett and Company was one of England's largest. In 1705, its working capital was estimated to be between £30,000 and £40,000, reflecting its significant dominance, particularly in the tobacco trade.

How did Sir Richard Levett's firm contribute to England's re-export trade?

In 1695, Sir Richard Levett's firm imported a substantial amount of tobacco into England. A significant portion of this, approximately 1.3 million pounds, was subsequently re-exported to markets in Holland, Germany, and the Baltic region, highlighting the firm's role as middlemen in international commerce.

What was Sir Richard Levett's involvement with the East India Company?

Sir Richard Levett was named a Merchant Adventurer of the London East India Company. He participated in meetings with other prominent traders and officials of the company, indicating his significant standing within the organization.

When was Sir Richard Levett knighted, and where did the ceremony take place?

Sir Richard Levett was knighted in 1691 at Kensington. This honor recognized his considerable success and standing in the mercantile and civic life of London.

What complaint did Sir Richard Levett lodge with the Board of Trade and Plantations in 1705?

In 1705, Sir Richard Levett complained to the Board of Trade and Plantations about interference with his ships. He alleged that the Governors of Virginia and Maryland had refused to permit two of his ships to sail with their full cargo, requiring their masters to provide security to touch at Madeira on their way home.

What is the significance of the portrait of Sir Richard Levett from 1699?

The source includes a portrait of Sir Richard Levett from 1699, painted by Godfried Schalcken. This artwork provides a visual representation of Levett during his prominent period, shortly before he became Lord Mayor of London.

What does the article state about Sir Richard Levett's political leanings?

Although Sir Richard Levett was nominally a Tory, his business practices aligned with free-market capitalism. This suggests a pragmatic approach to politics, prioritizing economic principles in his commercial dealings.

What happened to Sir Richard Levett's son, Richard, in terms of his career and financial status?

Sir Richard Levett's son, also named Richard, followed in his father's civic footsteps, becoming an Alderman and Sheriff of London. However, he later faced financial difficulties and was declared bankrupt in 1730.

Where are Sir Richard Levett and his wife buried, and what memorials exist?

Sir Richard Levett and his wife, Lady Mary Levett, are buried in the churchyard of St. Anne's Church in Kew. Memorials to them, as well as to the Blackburne family with whom they intermarried, are present in the church.

How was Sir Richard Levett commemorated in Kew in recent times?

In 2018, Sir Richard Levett was honored with the naming of a new street in Kew, Levett Square, recognizing his historical connection to the area through his country homes.

What happened to the Levett family heirlooms after the bankruptcy of Sir Richard's son?

Following the bankruptcy of Sir Richard Levett's son, many family heirlooms passed to the Hulse family, the descendants of Sir Richard's daughter. These items are now located at Breamore House, the Hulse family seat in Hampshire.

Who were Sir Richard Levett's brothers, and what were their professions?

Sir Richard Levett had two brothers: Francis Levett, who was also a merchant and partnered with Richard in their business ventures, and Dr. William Levett, who served as the Principal of Magdalen Hall, Oxford, and later as Dean of Bristol.

What was the connection between Sir Richard Levett's family and King Charles I?

Sir Richard Levett's uncle, also named William Levett, was a courtier and served as groom of the bedchamber to King Charles I. This uncle accompanied the King during his flight from Cromwellian forces, his imprisonment at Carisbrooke Castle, and his eventual execution.

What is depicted in the 1725 portrait mentioned in the article?

The article references a 1725 portrait that shows four Aldermen of London. One of these individuals was Richard Levett, Esq., the son of Lord Mayor Sir Richard Levett. The caption notes that Alderman Levett was declared bankrupt in 1730.

What role did Robert Hooke play in relation to Sir Richard Levett?

Robert Hooke, the architect, was a friend of Sir Richard Levett. Hooke served as the architect for Sir Robert Aske's Hospital, a project in which Levett, as Master of the Haberdashers' Company, played a key role.

What was the significance of Sir Richard Levett's involvement with the Haberdashers' Company?

Sir Richard Levett held a prominent position within the Haberdashers' Company, serving as its Master for the years 1690 and 1691. This role placed him in a leadership position within one of London's historic trade guilds.

What does the article suggest about the nature of Levett's business practices?

The article suggests that Levett drove hard bargains in his business dealings, particularly noted in transactions with Virginia planters for tobacco. His firm's success was built on efficient operations, access to capital, and a proprietary shipping fleet.

What was the context of Sir Richard Levett's complaint to the Board of Trade and Plantations regarding ship departures?

The complaint in 1705 concerned the refusal by colonial governors in Virginia and Maryland to allow two of Levett's ships to depart with their full cargo. Levett alleged that the ship masters were forced to provide security to make an intermediate stop in Madeira, suggesting potential trade restrictions or interference.

What is the significance of the Dutch House in Kew in relation to Sir Richard Levett's family?

The Dutch House in Kew, now known as Kew Palace, was one of Sir Richard Levett's country homes. After his death, his daughter Mary Thoroton leased it to Queen Caroline, wife of King George II, for use as a children's nursery. Later, Levett's grandson sold the property and surrounding estates to the Royal Family.

What connection did Levett's grandson, Levett Blackburne, have to the legal profession?

Levett Blackburne, Sir Richard Levett's grandson who inherited the family estates at Kew, was a prominent barrister. He was associated with Lincoln's Inn and served as Steward of Westminster Palace, also acting as a long-time advisor to the Dukes of Rutland.

What does the article reveal about Sir Richard Levett's philanthropic activities?

Sir Richard Levett was a philanthropist who donated to various charities. Notably, he contributed to St. Thomas' Hospital in Southwark and supported church charities in the West Country and Ireland.

What was the relationship between Lady Mary Levett and Edmund Calamy?

Lady Mary Levett, wife of Sir Richard Levett, was a close associate of Edmund Calamy, an English nonconformist churchman. Calamy referred to her as a great friend in his memoirs and noted her significant generosity towards religious and educational causes, even dedicating a sermon to her.

What is the historical significance of Sir Richard Levett's involvement with the Bank of England?

Sir Richard Levett was among the initial directors of the Bank of England. This position highlights his crucial role in the establishment and early governance of one of Britain's most important financial institutions.

What does the succession box indicate about Sir Richard Levett's tenure as Lord Mayor of London?

The succession box confirms that Sir Richard Levett served as the Lord Mayor of London for the term 1699-1700. He succeeded Sir Francis Child and was followed by Sir Thomas Abney.

What were the circumstances surrounding the Levett family's loss of wealth?

Although descended from a once-powerful Anglo-Norman family, the Levett family experienced a decline in their fortunes. Much of their medieval wealth was lost, leading Richard Levett and his brother Francis to build their success through their own mercantile endeavors.

What does the article suggest about the Levett brothers' contribution to the rise of the English middle class?

The Levett brothers exemplified the rise of the English middle class during a period of economic change. Their success through hard work and enterprise demonstrated that ordinary Englishmen could achieve upward mobility, moving into the upper-middle classes and challenging the traditional aristocratic structure.

What was the nature of Sir Richard Levett's business relationship with Virginia planters?

Detailed records indicate that Sir Richard Levett drove a hard bargain in his tobacco transactions with Virginia planters. This suggests a shrewd and assertive business approach in securing goods for his firm.

What is the historical context of Sir Richard Levett's residence in Cripplegate?

Sir Richard Levett resided in Cripplegate, London, in a large townhouse that was formerly owned by Sir Thomas Bloodworth, a previous Lord Mayor who served during the Great Fire of London. This residence served as the center for both his trading empire and his mayoral duties.

What connection did Sir Richard Levett's family have to the Hulse family?

The Hulse family became connected to the Levett family through marriage. Sir Richard Levett's daughter married into the Hulse family of Hampshire, and it was through this line that many Levett family heirlooms eventually passed, particularly after the bankruptcy of Sir Richard's son.

What does the article imply about Sir Richard Levett's social standing and network?

Sir Richard Levett was well-acquainted with many prominent figures of his era, including Samuel Pepys, Sir John Houblon, and Dr. Robert Hooke. His involvement in institutions like the Bank of England, the East India Company, and his rise to Lord Mayor attest to his high social and economic standing in London.

What was the role of chapmen in the Levett brothers' early business?

Chapmen were itinerant merchants who bought goods from wholesalers like the Levett brothers at fairs. The Levetts sold imported goods, such as tobacco and textiles, to these chapmen, who then distributed them across the country, forming a crucial part of the brothers' early distribution network.

What is the significance of Sir Richard Levett's burial place?

Sir Richard Levett is buried in the churchyard of St. Anne's Church in Kew. This location is significant as it was near his country homes and serves as a final resting place for him, his wife, and other family members, marked by memorials within the church.

What does the article suggest about the economic climate that facilitated Levett's success?

The article suggests that profound changes in the English economy, characterized by expanding trade and diminishing feudal privileges in favor of a growing mercantile middle class, abetted the rise of the Levett brothers. This evolving economic landscape provided opportunities for enterprising individuals like them.

What was the nature of Sir Richard Levett's involvement with Lloyd's of London?

Sir Richard Levett was one of the earliest investors in what eventually became Lloyd's of London. This indicates his early engagement with the maritime insurance market, a critical component of international trade during that period.

What does the mention of 'intruding minister' imply about Richard Levett's father?

The term 'intruding minister' suggests that Richard Levett's father was appointed to his clerical position during the Interregnum (the period between the monarchy's fall and the Restoration), likely through the authority of the Commonwealth government rather than traditional ecclesiastical appointment. His subsequent ejection in 1660 confirms this interpretation.

How did Sir Richard Levett's business contribute to England's international trade presence?

Levett's firm acted as a major importer and exporter, particularly in the tobacco trade. By sourcing goods globally and re-exporting them to other European markets, his business played a significant role in England's position as a key player in international commerce and finance.

What is the historical context of Sir Richard Levett's knighthood?

Sir Richard Levett was knighted in 1691, a recognition of his substantial achievements and influence in London's commercial and civic spheres. Knighthood at this time often signified significant success and contribution to the nation's economy and governance.

Richard Levett Wiki: Sir Richard Levett: Architect of Commerce and Civic Eminence

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Overview

A Prominent Figure

Sir Richard Levett (1629 – 20 January 1711) was a distinguished English merchant and politician, culminating his career as the Lord Mayor of London in 1699. His life story reflects the dynamic economic and social transformations of 17th-century England, marked by burgeoning trade, the rise of financial institutions, and civic responsibility.

Mercantile Prowess

Originating from modest beginnings in Rutland, Levett established a pioneering mercantile career in London. He became deeply involved with key institutions such as the Bank of England and the East India Company, demonstrating significant acumen in international trade and finance.

Influential Connections

Levett cultivated relationships with many prominent individuals of his era, including Samuel Pepys, Sir John Houblon, and Dr. Robert Hooke. These connections facilitated his rise and underscored his importance within the City of London's elite circles.

Origins and Early Career

Humble Roots, Noble Lineage

Though born into a family with ancient Anglo-Norman roots, Richard Levett and his brother Francis faced straitened circumstances due to the family's diminished medieval wealth. Their father, Revd Richard Levett, a Puritan sympathizer, was ejected from his clerical living following the Restoration, necessitating the brothers' self-reliance.

The Rise of the Middle Class

The Levett brothers exemplified the emerging meritocracy of England. They transitioned from humble haberdashers to influential merchants, leveraging profound economic shifts that favored hard work and enterprise over inherited privilege. Their success mirrored the rise of the mercantile middle class.

Pioneering Trade Routes

Starting with small-scale trading of goods like tobacco and textiles, the brothers utilized their own ships to import and distribute products across England and, increasingly, internationally. Their business acumen allowed them to outpace competitors as the British Empire expanded.

Building a Business Empire

Dominance in Key Markets

By the early 18th century, Sir Richard Levett and Company had become one of England's largest trading firms, particularly dominant in the vast tobacco trade originating from the Virginia Colony and Turkey. Their operations involved significant capital, estimated between £30,000 and £40,000 in 1705.

Global Reach

The firm's extensive network encompassed trade with the Levant, India, Africa, the West Indies, North America, Ireland, and Russia. Levett meticulously managed shipping terms and voyages to diverse locations, including Guinea and the English Southern Colonies.

Levett's firm acted as crucial middlemen, importing goods globally for the English market and re-exporting significant quantities. For instance, in 1695, the firm imported nearly 4 million pounds of tobacco, re-exporting about 1.3 million pounds to continental Europe and the Baltic region. This vertical integration and access to capital generated enormous profits.

It is important to note that, like many merchants of the era, Levett was involved in the Atlantic slave trade, overseeing the transportation of enslaved Africans from West Africa to the English colonies in Virginia and Maryland.

Financial and Institutional Involvement

Levett's influence extended beyond trade. He was a founding director of the Bank of England, a member of the Honourable East India Company, and an early investor in what would become Lloyd's of London. He also served on the New England Company.

Home and Family Life

Residences

Sir Richard Levett maintained residences both in the heart of London, in Cripplegate, and country estates in Kew. His London home was a substantial townhouse, previously owned by Sir Thomas Bloodworth, a former Lord Mayor.

Levett owned two properties in Kew, including the Dutch House (now Kew Palace) and its surrounding estate. These properties were later sold to the Royal Family in 1781 by his grandson, Levett Blackburne, Esq., a barrister.

His daughter, Mary Thoroton, leased the Dutch House to Queen Caroline, wife of King George II, for use as a nursery, influencing Prince Frederick's decision to settle nearby.

Marriages and Descendants

Sir Richard Levett was married twice: first to Mary Shipton, and subsequently to Mary Clarke. He had five children: Elizabeth, Mary, Frances, Anne, and Richard.

His son, Richard Levett, also served as an Alderman and Sheriff of London but faced bankruptcy in 1730. Consequently, many family heirlooms passed to the Hulse family through Levett's daughter and her descendants.

His daughter Mary married Abraham Blackborne, a London merchant, and later Colonel Thomas Thoroton. Their descendants intermarried with prominent families, including the Manners-Suttons (Archbishop of Canterbury).

Philanthropy and Social Life

Levett was a noted philanthropist, contributing to charities such as St. Thomas' Hospital in Southwark and various church initiatives in the West Country and Ireland. His wife, Lady Mary Levett, was particularly known for her generous donations to religious and educational causes, earning commendation from figures like Edmund Calamy.

Levett's social life included interactions with prominent figures like Samuel Pepys, as documented in Pepys' diaries, and politician Roger Whitley.

Death and Lasting Impact

Final Resting Place

Sir Richard Levett died on 20 January 1711. He, his wife Mary, and several daughters are interred in the churchyard of St. Anne's Church, Kew. Memorials within the church commemorate the family.

Commemoration

In recognition of his significance, a new street in Kew was named Levett Square in 2018, marking a modern commemoration of his historical presence in the area.

Heirlooms and Artistic Connections

Following his death and his son's financial difficulties, many Levett family heirlooms passed to related families. Notably, his widow, Mary, later changed her will regarding valuable paintings attributed to Anthony van Dyck, originally intended for a friend, deciding instead to sell them, likely due to their royal connection inherited from Levett's uncle, a courtier to King Charles I.

Civic Offices Held

Lord Mayor

Sir Richard Levett served as the Lord Mayor of London for the term 1699–1700. This prestigious office placed him at the pinnacle of the City of London's governance and commercial leadership.

Sheriff

Prior to his mayoralty, Levett held significant civic roles, including Sheriff of London for the 1691/92 term. He also served as a City Alderman, demonstrating a sustained commitment to public service and the administration of London.

Master

Levett was Master of the Haberdashers' Company in 1690 and 1691. In this capacity, he played a role in the construction of Aske's Hospital, with architect Robert Hooke involved.

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References

The House of Commons, 1690–1715, Vol. I, David Hayton, Eveline Cruickshanks, Stuart Handley, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 2002

London and the Kingdom, Vol. II, Reginald R. Sharpe, BiblioBazaar LLC, 2008

Thomas Haydon, England to Virginia, 1657, Robert Haydon, published by Robert Haydon, 2002

Report on the Old Records of the India Office, George Christopher Molesworth Birdwood, W. H. Allen and Co., London, Calcutta, 1891

History of the Bank of England, Its Times and Traditions, Vol. II, John Francis, Willoughby & Co., London, 1847

Revue de l'Extreme-Orient, Henri Cordier, Paris, 1887

The Livery Companies of the City of London, William Hazlitt, republished by Ayer Publishing, 1972

Thesis of Anthony Hotson, Chapter 8, anthonyhotson.com

A Dictionary of London, Henry A. Harben, 1918, Centre for Metropolitan History, British History Online, british-history.ac.uk

A Regal Dollhouse Fit for a Princess, The New York Times, 2 July 2004

History of the Crispe Family, Part One, Dr. B.J. Cigrand, Chicago, Illinois, 1901

An Historical Account of St. Thomas' Hospital, Southwark, Benjamin Golding, Longman, Hurst, Rees, Orme and Browne, London, 1819

An Historical Account of My Own Life, Vol. I, Edmund Calamy, John Towill Rutt, Henry Colburn and Richard Bentley, London, 1830

A History of the Presbyterian and General Baptist Churches of the West of England, Jerom Murch, R. Hunter, London, 1835

Diary and Correspondence of Samuel Pepys, Samuel Pepys, Vol. III, J.B. Lippincott, Philadelphia, 1855

Roger Whitley's Diary, various entries, British History Online, british-history.ac.uk

The Environs of London, Daniel Lysons, T. Cadell and W. Davies, London, 1810

A full list of references for this article are available at the Richard Levett Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Historical Context and Accuracy

This document has been generated by an AI and is based on information extracted from the Wikipedia article on Sir Richard Levett. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and provide context suitable for advanced academic study, the content is derived from a specific point in time and may not encompass all nuances or recent scholarship.

This is not professional historical or financial advice. The information presented is for educational and informational purposes only. Readers are encouraged to consult primary sources and academic research for comprehensive understanding and should not rely solely on this content for critical decisions.

The creators assume no liability for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Sir Richard Levett

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview 🏛️

👤 A Prominent Figure

📈 Mercantile Prowess

🤝 Influential Connections

Origins and Early Career 🌱

📜 Humble Roots, Noble Lineage

💼 The Rise of the Middle Class

🌍 Pioneering Trade Routes

Building a Business Empire 💰

📦 Dominance in Key Markets

🗺️ Global Reach

🏦 Financial and Institutional Involvement

Home and Family Life 🏡

🏠 Residences

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Marriages and Descendants

❤️ Philanthropy and Social Life

Death and Lasting Impact ⏳

🪦 Final Resting Place

🏘️ Commemoration

🖼️ Heirlooms and Artistic Connections

Civic Offices Held 👑

⚖️ Lord Mayor

🛡️ Sheriff

🎓 Master

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Historical Context and Accuracy

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

A Prominent Figure

Mercantile Prowess

Influential Connections

Origins and Early Career

Humble Roots, Noble Lineage

The Rise of the Middle Class

Pioneering Trade Routes

Building a Business Empire

Dominance in Key Markets

Global Reach

Financial and Institutional Involvement

Home and Family Life

Residences

Marriages and Descendants

Philanthropy and Social Life

Death and Lasting Impact

Final Resting Place

Commemoration

Heirlooms and Artistic Connections

Civic Offices Held

Lord Mayor

Sheriff

Master

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Historical Context and Accuracy