Identity area
Reference code
Title
Date(s)
- 4th March 1828 (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 from William French to Robert Jefferson. Writes to say that he acknowledges the letter he sent to William Hustler. Has the items listed in the bills but not in the accounts Robert Jefferson has received so he can be reassured that the bills are genuine. Also requests outstanding payment on the fellowship as soon as possible. Suggests he doesn't delay paying the bills as it will damage the character of the College and his late brother.