RUSSELL, Richard I

More may be added to the earlier biography. The Commons 1386-1421, iv. 253-4.

Russell became involved in the parliamentary affairs of York soon after gaining the freedom of the city in 1396. In October 1399 he stood as one of the sureties for John Bolton† on his return to Henry IV’s first Parliament. C219/10/1. Both men traded in wool and they were almost certainly known to each other through their business dealings. Russell’s standing among his fellow wool merchants was such that he was, on at least two occasions, chosen as mayor of the Calais staple. He was probably replaced during the Parliament of 1429 when it was decided that John Reynwell* should hold the office for the next three years.