Identity area
Reference code
Title
Date(s)
- 20th April 1837 (Creation)
Level of description
Item
Extent and medium
1 item, paper.
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
Immediate source of acquisition or transfer
Content and structure area
Scope and content
Copy of letter or letter that was unsent from William French to unidentified recepient (addressed 'Dear Lord'). French has only consulted the other Heads of Colleges about the matter. The vice-chancellor has called a meeting of all heads of houses to consider what course should be pursued. The main subject to be discussed will be the power of the colleges to adapt their statutes to suit their more modern needs.