John Shakespeare also held several municipal positions in Stratford-upon-Avon. About eight years before William was born, John was an ale taster, which meant that he served as an inspector for malt liquors and bread. He also became Stratford's constable and the chamberlain responsible for the town's finances and property. read more
John Shakespeare was fairly wealthy early on, but at some point he hit a low point. By the time Shakespeare was becoming a man, his father was losing respectability and out of the town records, meaning that he no longer held office. read more