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What jobs did John Shakespeare hold in Stratford-upon-Avon?
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William Shakespeare
William Shakespeare, detail of an oil painting attributed to John Taylor, c. 1610. The portrait is called the “Chandos Shakespeare” because it once belonged to the duke of Chandos.
John Shakespeare, the father of William Shakespeare, was a prominent figure in Stratford-upon-Avon. He was engaged in various types of trade throughout his life and held several significant civic positions within the borough.1
His professional and civic roles included:
- Tradesman: He was involved in various kinds of trade, though historical records indicate his prosperity fluctuated over time.1
- Burgess: He served as a burgess of the borough.1
- Alderman: He was chosen for this position in 1565.1
- Bailiff: In 1568, he attained the position of bailiff, which was the role corresponding to that of a mayor at the time.1