Dean of Wolverhampton facts for kids

The Dean of Wolverhampton was like the main leader of a special group of church officials called canons at St Peter's Collegiate Church, Wolverhampton. This job existed until 1846, when the group of canons was stopped.

Back then, St Peter's Church was a very unique place. It was called a "royal peculiar," which meant it was directly under the King or Queen, not under the usual church leaders like bishops or archbishops.

Today, St Peter's Church is a local church in a team parish. It has a rector who leads the team, and its own vicar and curate. The church is now part of the Diocese of Lichfield, which is a regular church area.

St Peter's, Wolverhampton

What Was the Dean of Wolverhampton?

The Dean of Wolverhampton was the main person in charge of the group of canons at St Peter's Church. Think of it like a principal leading a school, but for a church. This important role helped manage the church and its activities.

When Did the Deanery Start?

The job of Dean probably began in the middle of the 1100s. This was around the same time that a similar leadership role was created at Lichfield Cathedral. At that time, the church was controlled by bishops.

We don't know the names of all the leaders before a person named Peter of Blois. One important figure, Samson, who was William the Conqueror's personal helper, was a powerful landlord over the canons. However, there's no proof he was the head of the group.

Who Were the Deans of Wolverhampton?

The following people served as Deans of Wolverhampton. After about 1480, the job of Dean of Wolverhampton became combined with the job of Dean of Windsor.