Sir James Houblon

Sir James Houblon was a prominent merchant and Member of Parliament for the City of London.

He was born in 1629 as the second son into a prosperous merchant family that originated from French Huguenot immigrants. Continuing the family business, Houblon was engaged in the East India and Iberian trade and specialized in the import of Port wine.

Along with his brother John, James had an important role in the foundation of the Bank of England in 1692, and served as its first director. After he served as a London’s common councilman for years, in 1692 he was finally named alderman of the Aldersgate ward. Soon afterwards he was knighted. In 1698 he was elected as the Member of Parliament for the City of London, but his more ardent engagement was prevented by his illness.

As a member of the Merchant Adventurers' Company, James established his numerous sons in London's overseas commerce.

He died in 1700 and was buried at St Benet Paul's Wharf.