Edmund Shaa

Sir Edmund Shaa (born Mottram in Longdendale, Cheshire, died London 20 April 1488) was a goldsmith, Sheriff of London in 1475 and Lord Mayor of London in 1482. Shaa lent money to Edward IV and, as mayor (at least), was extensively involved in the coronation of Edward IV’s brother Richard III. He was later knighted and made a member of the Privy Council.

Amongst numerous legacies on his death was a sum to found Stockport Grammar School.[1] He is commemorated by a Blue Plaque on Church Brow, Mottram.[2]

Shaa was mayor in interesting times. It is sometimes stated[1][2] that Shaa’s brother, Ralph Shaa, preached against the legitimacy of Edward IV’s marriage and that Shaa (as mayor) offered the crown to Richard III.[2] Shaa is a character in William Shakespeare's play Richard III. Sir John Shaa, the first 16th century Lord Mayor, was his nephew, while William Browne, Lord Mayor in 1513, was his son-in-law.

References

  1. ^ a b Tucker, P., "Shaa, Sir Edmund", on the website of the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography (Subscription or UK public library membership required), http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/ref:odnb/25248 
  2. ^ a b c "Sir Edmund Shaa - Blue Plaque". Tameside MBC webpages. Tameside MBC. http://www.tameside.gov.uk/leisure/new/bp_25.htm. Retrieved 2006-10-22.