Francis Gosling

Sir Francis Gosling
Born	1719-12-08 London, England
Died	1768
Occupation(s)	Banker, Alderman
Known for	Partner in Goslings Bank; Alderman of City of London; Sheriff of London and Middlesex; knighted by King George III

Sir Francis Gosling (1719–1768) was a partner in Goslings Bank, which later became Goslings and Sharpe before merging with Barclays Bank in 1896. Additionally, he held the position of Alderman within the City of London.

Early life

Francis was born in London on 8 December 1719, the son of Robert Gosling (1684–1741), who worked as a stationer and bookseller near Middle Temple Gate, and his wife Elizabeth née Douce (1692–1729).

Career

Initially apprenticed under his father, Francis engaged in the bookselling and printing trade until 1757. In 1742, he joined as a partner in a banking firm originally established by Henry Pinckney, a goldsmith banker from around 1650, and the institution was subsequently renamed Goslings Bank. The bank was located at No 19 Fleet Street, London, operating under the emblem of three squirrels.

In 1756, he was chosen as Alderman for the Farringdon Without ward. Two years later, in 1758, he served as Sheriff of London and Middlesex. On 28 October 1760, during a proclamation event at Saville House, King George III knighted him. Although Sir Francis was slated to become Lord Mayor of London in 1766, he declined the honor due to poor health, resulting in Sir Robert Kite being elected instead.

Family

Francis married Elizabeth née Midwinter (1724–1806) on 12 November 1742. She was the daughter of Edward Midwinter (1680–1736), a printer and bookseller. Her legal guardians, John Osborn and John Atkinson, gave their permission for the marriage. Notably, Elizabeth resided with Samuel Richardson (1684–1761) and was portrayed alongside him and his family by the artist Francis Hayman.