PICKETT, William (Grimwade p.623, 763)

[MCB]

Grimwade’s speculation as to Pickett’s origins and apprenticeship is resolved in a document dated 29th April 1757 relating to a petition alleging that either he or his master William Hunter, having been offered an opportunity to his advantage, Hunter remitted the remaining 7 months of Pickett’s term. Pickett was granted his freedom by redemption. The document shows he was the son of William Pickett late tallow chandler of Stoke Newington.
Norman Penzer on Paul Storr suggested that Pickett had married into the Theed family. The marriage register at St Sepulchre, Holborn dated 27th September 1757 records William Pickett of Christ Church parish, Newgate Street married Elizabeth Pratten. The record appears to be relevant as William Theed was a witness to the marriage.
The Land Tax Assessment Books record Pickett and William Theed together in property on the north side of Ludgate Hill from 1766 until 1768, Pickett alone there from 1769 to 1771, with Phillip Rundell until 1785 and Rundell assessed alone on the property in 1786, all confirming Heal’s suggestions regarding the periods of partnership.
Trade directory entries tell a slightly different story:
1759-1772 Thead (sic) and Pickett as goldsmiths, jewellers and toy men at 32 Ludgate Hill;
1772-1786 Pickett and Rundell in the same trades at that address.
As it always pays to advertise Pickett had Directory entries made in 1783-89 as an alderman at 32 Ludgate Hill and in the same capacity in 1786-91 at Harpur Street, Red Lion Square. Other entries in 1790 from both Cornhill and The Mansion House advertised his being Lord Mayor (of London).
The Will of William Pickett. Alderman late of Southweald, Essex, was proved for probate on 17th January 1797 (National Archives reference PROB 11/1284/164).

[dognose]

An image of a Theed & Pickett billhead:



'SUCCESSORS TO MR. HENRY HURT'

'AT THE GOLDEN SALMON, LUDGATE HILL'

Source: London Topographical Record - 1903