Identity area
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Title
Date(s)
- 19th July 1825 (Creation)
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Context area
Name of creator
Biographical history
Master of Jesus College, 1820-1849.
William French was the son of Thomas French, a wealthy yeoman at Eye in Suffolk. He was educated at Ipswich Grammar School. In 1807 he entered Gonville and Caius College and was second wrangler and Smith's prizeman. He graduated BA in 1811 and MA in 1814. In 1811 he was elected as a Fellow and Tutor at Pembroke College. He became a University Proctor in 1816.
In 1821 he married Elizabeth Maria, daughter of John Wythe of Eye, and was made DD by Royal Mandate, and served in the office of Vice-Chancellor. He held this position again in 1834, when he also acted as one of the syndics appointed to superintend the building of the Fitzwilliam Museum.
In 1827 he was presented by the Lord Chancellor to the living of Moor Monkton, Yorkshire. In 1832 he became a canon of Ely Cathedral.
He died in the lodge at Jesus College on 12 November 1849.
Archival history
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Content and structure area
Scope and content
Addressed to Brandeston, Wickham Market, Suffolk. No objection the re-roofing but insists best materials have to be used including the best Welsh rag affixed with copper fastenings. The roof should be prepared properly to ensure the slates all lie flat. Further suggests any money left from the sale of the lead which is very dear should be set aside as a fund for any further improvements.