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Jul 314 min read

Martin BOND Capt

Martin Bond, born in 1558 and passing 1643, belonged to a prestigious lineage as the son of Sir William Bond, a respected sheriff and alderman in London, and Lady Margaret Aldy, he is a descendent of the Bonds De Eath. His early years were marked by remarkable events, such as his role as Captain at the Tilbury camp in 1588 where he played a crucial part in preparing to repel the infamous Spanish Armada. This pivotal moment in history showcased his leadership skills and dedication to protecting his homeland.


Throughout his life, Martin Bond continued to demonstrate his commitment to his community by serving as the chief captain of the Trained Bands of the City until his passing. His leadership in this role solidified his reputation as a trusted figure in maintaining order and security within the city. Additionally, his involvement as a Merchant Adventurer highlighted his entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to engage in commercial ventures that contributed to the economic growth of London.


Martin Bond's legacy is a testament to his unwavering commitment to duty, service, and the improvement of his community. Throughout his illustrious career, he demonstrated unparalleled dedication and leadership in both military and economic realms, leaving an indelible mark on the history of London. His tireless efforts and contributions not only shaped the landscape of the city but also influenced the lives of countless individuals. By embodying the values of integrity, perseverance, and excellence, Martin Bond set a standard of excellence that continues to inspire and guide future generations. His legacy serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on a community and its history.


When I uncovered the connection between Martin and my Bond family lineage, it felt like stumbling upon a hidden treasure trove of historical knowledge waiting to be explored. Delving deeper into Martin Bond's role in defending England against the Spanish Armada was a truly enlightening experience. The Spanish Armada, with its grand scale and political implications, opened up a whole new world of historical intrigue for me.


Memorial Martin Bond St Helens Bishopsgate London

My curiosity piqued, I found myself immersed in books and resources dedicated to the Spanish Armada, eager to grasp the intricacies of this pivotal event in history. The more I read, the more I discovered about the strategies, the players involved, and the broader context of the conflict.

Unravelling the layers of historical significance surrounding Martin Bond's actions during this tumultuous period not only enriched my understanding of my family's past but also provided me with a deeper appreciation for the complexities of history itself. Each page turned revealed new insights, painting a vivid picture of a time long past yet still resonant with relevance.



Queen Elizabeth I Speech to the Troops at Tilbury.


My loving people,


We have been persuaded by some that are careful of our safety to take heed how we commit ourselves to armed multitudes, for fear of treachery. But I assure you, I do not desire to live to distrust my faithful and loving people.


Let tyrants fear. I have always so behaved myself that, under God, I have placed my chiefest strength and safeguard in the loyal hearts and good-will of my subjects; and therefore I am come amongst you, as you see, at this time, not for my recreation and disport, but being resolved, in the midst and heat of the battle, to live and die amongst you all; to lay down for my God, and for my kingdom, and my people, my honour and my blood, even in the dust.


I know I have the body of a weak and feeble woman; but I have the heart and stomach of a king, and of a king of England too, and think foul scorn that Parma or Spain, or any prince of Europe, should dare to invade the borders of my realm: to which rather than any dishonour shall grow by me, I myself will take up arms, I myself will be your general, judge, and rewarder of every one of your virtues in the field.


I know already, for your forwardness you have deserved rewards and crowns; and We do assure you on a word of a prince, they shall be duly paid. In the mean time, my lieutenant general shall be in my stead, than whom never prince commanded a more noble or worthy subject; not doubting but by your obedience to my general, by your concord in the camp, and your valour in the field, we shall shortly have a famous victory over these enemies of my God, of my kingdom, and of my people.



Martin BOND Capt 1560-1645

5th cousin 11x removed




Further Reading:

UCL Discovery, The Merchant Taylors Company of London 1580 - 1645.

The Spanish Armada by Charles River Editors and Jesse Harasta.


Copyright © Noel Bond. Researched and written by Noel Bond, No written part of this Blog may be reproduced in any form, by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without written permission from the author.


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