Background
John Clapham was born in London and began his professional life as clerk to the lord treasurer, William Cecil, Lord Burghley from around 1590. In 1608 Clapham built Christ"s Hospital in his father"s home parish of Firby (Bedale), which he continued to support until his death in 1619. He was survived by his wife, Ann, daughter of Edmund Kiderminster, and one son.
Career
During this period he performed various roles, acting as burgess for Sudbury, dealing with the repair of English coastal defences, tending to wardship affairs, and becoming closely acquainted with the state of Burghley’s health. He was present at Burghley"s deathbed in 1598. In 1602 he was admitted to Gray"s Inn, serving as one of the Six Clerks in Chancery until 1618.
He is believed to be buried at Saint Dunstan-in-the-West on Fleet Street.