Ever heard of Sir Thomas Adams, 1st Baronet? If you’re local to Wem, Shropshire, or have an interest in the history of London or Cambridge University, his name might ring a bell. But for many, this influential figure of the 17th century remains a lesser-known historical gem. Let’s take a moment to uncover the story of a man marked by his unwavering loyalty, civic duty, and remarkable generosity.
Born in 1586 in Wem, Shropshire, Thomas Adams embarked on a path that would see him rise to prominence as a successful draper in London. His acumen in business was matched by a strong sense of public service. He served the City of London in several key roles, including Sheriff in 1639 and, most notably, as Lord Mayor of London in 1645-1646 – a turbulent period during the English Civil War.
Sir Thomas was a staunch Royalist, a conviction that brought him both honour and hardship. His loyalty to King Charles I was unshakeable, leading to his house being searched for the King and even a period of imprisonment in the Tower of London. Despite the personal risks, Adams continued to support the Royalist cause, reportedly sending a significant sum of £10,000 to the exiled Charles II.
With the Restoration of the monarchy in 1660, Adams’s steadfast loyalty was rewarded. He was part of the delegation sent by the City of London to accompany Charles II back to England. The King knighted him and, in 1661, created him a Baronet.
Beyond his political and civic life, Sir Thomas Adams left a lasting legacy as a philanthropist. He famously founded the Thomas Adams School in his birthplace of Wem, an institution that continues to educate young minds today. His commitment to learning also extended to higher education, where he established and endowed the first Professorship of Arabic at the University of Cambridge in 1643. This was a visionary move, aimed at fostering understanding and facilitating the translation of important texts. He even funded the printing of the Gospels in Persian for distribution in the East.
Sir Thomas Adams passed away on February 24, 1668 (or 1667 by some accounts). An interesting, albeit somewhat grisly, historical footnote is that after his death, a very large kidney stone, weighing a reputed 25 ounces, was removed from his body and is apparently still preserved in a Cambridge laboratory.
Sir Thomas Adams’s life was one of considerable achievement and impact. From successful merchant to Lord Mayor, from a steadfast loyalist facing imprisonment to a celebrated Baronet, and a philanthropist whose contributions to education endure, his story is a fascinating glimpse into a pivotal era of English history. He stands as a testament to a life lived with strong principles and a dedication to the betterment of society.