Richard Whittington of the parish of St Michael Paternoster Royal, City of London, was an English merchant and a politician of the late medieval period. He is also the real-life inspiration for the English folk tale Dick Whittington and His Cat. He was four times Lord Mayor of London, a member of parliament and a Sheriff of London. In his lifetime he financed a number of public projects, such as drainage systems in poor areas of medieval London, and a hospital ward for unmarried mothers. He bequeathed his fortune to form the Charity of Sir Richard Whittington which, nearly 600 years later, continues to assist people in need.
Richard Whittington, stained glass in the Guildhall, City of London
Whittington on his death bed, at his side the four executors of his will, John Coventre, John White, clerk, John Carpenter, and William Grove, with many of the beneficiaries of his charities at the foot of his bed. A physician examines a bottle of urine
"Portraits of Sir Richard Whittington & his cat". Printed in New Wonderful Museum, Vol. III (1805). "from the original painting at Mercers' Hall".
Image: Arms of Sir Richard Whittington
St Michael Paternoster Royal
St Michael Paternoster Royal is a church in the City of London. The original building, which was first recorded in the 13th century, was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666. The church was rebuilt under the aegis of Sir Christopher Wren. However St Michael's was severely damaged during the London Blitz in the Second World War. It was restored between 1966 and 1968.
Photo of St Michael Paternoster Royal
Turners' Courtyard
Seamen's Church
The main stained glass window: St Michael and Satan
