Dick Whittington and His Cat

Dick Whittington and His Cat is the English folklore surrounding the real-life Richard Whittington (c. 1354 – 1423), wealthy merchant and later Lord Mayor of London. The legend describes his rise from poverty-stricken childhood with the fortune he made through the sale of his cat to a rat-infested country. Although the real Whittington was actually of high birth and likely did not own a cat, he did become a merchant and politician and was remembered for his public projects and charitable investments.

Another element in the legend is that Dick attempted to flee his service as a scullion one night, heading towards home (or reached Highgate Hill in later tradition), but was dissuaded by the sound of Bow bells, which promised he would be mayor of London one day.

Since the pre-Victorian era, the story has been a favourite subject of British pantomime, especially during Christmas season.