William Selby

William Selby was a member of mercantile family of York, and he himself engaged in the wool trade. Although comparatively little direct evidence has survived about his ventures the extent of his holdings in York and the important position which he occupied in the civic hierarchy testify alike to his great wealth and social status.

During 1370s, Selby began his civic career as bailiff of York and member of the council of 24. He became involved in the factional disputes which divided the city in the early 1380s, but has suffered no penalty or disgrace as a result of his participation in this potentially serious dispute. He was elected as Mayor of York in 1385, in 1387, and in 1388. He was also a Member of Parliament for five times. His third mayoralty was marked by a visit paid to York by Richard II (r. 1377 – 1399), whose increasing disenchantment with the people of London may already have predisposed him to show especial favor towards his subjects in the north. Selby was presented with a ceremonial sword to be carried before King and his successors as a token of their official rank.