Charles Mayo (Anglo-Saxon scholar) facts for kids
Charles Mayo (born 1767, died 1858) was an English clergyman and a professor who taught about Anglo-Saxon, an old form of the English language. He was known for his academic work and his long career as a preacher.
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Early Life and Education
Charles Mayo was born in London on March 24, 1767. His father was Herbert Mayo, a doctor of divinity.
When he was nine years old, in 1776, Charles started attending Merchant Taylors' School. Later, in 1785, he was chosen to go to St John's College, Oxford. He became a Fellow there in 1788. A "Fellow" is like a senior member of a college, often involved in teaching and research. He earned his Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in 1793 and his Bachelor of Divinity (B.D.) degree in 1796.
Career as a Professor
In 1795, Charles Mayo made history. He was chosen to be the very first Rawlinsonian Professor of Anglo-Saxon at Oxford University. This was a new and important teaching role that lasted for five years. People like Samuel Parr, a famous scholar, said that Mayo's lectures were very well-received and praised.
Work as a Clergyman
Besides his academic work, Charles Mayo also became a clergyman. This means he was a minister in the Church of England.
- From 1799 to 1800, he served as a preacher at Whitehall.
- For thirty years, he was the morning lecturer at the old chapel of St. Michael in Highgate.
Recognitions and Later Life
Charles Mayo was recognized for his knowledge and contributions to learning.
- In 1820, he became a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries. This society is for people interested in history and old things.
- In 1827, he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a very prestigious group for scientists and scholars.
- In 1842, he became a governor of Cholmeley School in Highgate.
For most of his life, Charles Mayo lived in Cheshunt, Hertfordshire. He inherited some land there in 1824. He married Louisa Landon, but they did not have any children. Charles Mayo passed away on December 10, 1858, at the age of 91. He was buried in Cheshunt.
