Sir George Barne III

Sir George Barne III was a prominent merchant and public official from London during the reign of Elizabeth I.

A haberdasher by trade, Barne was prosperous in many branches of commerce. He was an exporter of cloth, a grocer and vintner, and an importer of wine from Spain. He served as master of the Haberdashers’ Company, Governor of the Muscovy Company several times, and a founder of the Spanish Company, and the Turkey Company. Barne was also a promoter of voyages to Guinea in 1553 and 1554.

His long and prosperous career of a businessman enabled him to participate in public life. During his lifetime Barne served as mayor of London in 1552-1553, and Sheriff of London. He was knighted in 1553.

Upon his death, Barne left a will which reveals the extent of his financial success, lands and estates in several counties throughout England.