He made a profit from writing and acting, was a shareholder of a thriving theater, and was also active in the Blackfriars Theatre, built in 1596, one of whose buildings was owned by Lord Chamberlain’s troupe. In 1597 he bought New Place, built in 1483, the second largest house in Stratford, and the only one in the city built of stone. Around 1602, he bought 200 acres of land. In 1605, for the price of £40, he bought cannons owned by Stratford Church. Part of his wealth probably came from usury, some through lawsuits he brought against his debtors (some sources claim Shakespeare would sue for any amount, even a small one). In addition, he bequeathed to his daughter Judith £300, which was a significant amount.
