Flag of the City of London about the 13th century. His full figure representation was rapidly replaced with his symbolic representation of the sword. Some believe the sword is a dagger that commemorates the dagger of Sir William Walworth, former Lord Mayor of London, which killed Wat Tyler, leader of the Peasants' Revolt, in 1381. A verse at Fishmongers' Hall may explain the relationship: "Brave Walworth, Knight, lord mayor that slew Rebellious Tyler in his alarmes; The king therefore did give him in lieu The dagger to the city armes. However this is believed to be a fable, with the sword on the arms being used
William Laxton (Lord Mayor of London) William Laxton (Lord Mayor of London) Sir William Laxton (c.1500–1556) was a Lord Mayor of London during the reign of Henry VIII, and eight times Master of the Worshipful Company of Grocers. He is the founder of Oundle School. Laxton was born in Oundle, Northamptonshire, England, the son of John Laxton, a local merchant. He was educated at the grammar school in Oundle situated in the old 'gildhouse' in the churchyard of St Peter's parish church. Upon leaving school he went to London and became an apprentice of the Worshipful Company of Grocers in London. Having completed his seven-year term