Page "William Byrd" Paragraph 2

Thanks largely to the research of John Harley, knowledge of Byrd's biography has expanded in recent years.

According to Harley, Thomas Byrd, the grandson of Richard Byrd of Ingatestone, Essex, likely moved to London in the 15th century.

Thereafter succeeding generations of the family are described as gentlemen.

William Byrd was born in London, the son of another Thomas Byrd about whom nothing further is known, and his wife, Margery.

The specific year of Byrd's birth is uncertain.

His will, dated 15 November 1622, describes him as ' in the 80th year of my age ', suggesting a birthdate of 1542 or 1543.

However a document dated 2 October 1598 written in his own hand states that he is ' 58 yeares or ther abouts ,' indicating an earlier birthdate of 1539 or 1540.

Byrd had two brothers, Symond and John, who became London merchants, and four sisters, Alice, Barbara, Mary and Martha.