Browne, William, wool stapler

Notes:

William Browne, c1410-89, was from a long established family of wool merchants at Stamford and Calais. Emerged as a powerful merchant, 'mayor' of the Calais Staple with interests stretching from 'Boston and Ipswich, to Coventry and Southampton as well as Calais'. Also a money lender to Crown, aristocracy and local tradesmen. Owner of large estates in Lincolnshire, Rutland and Northamptonshire