George Moxon facts for kids

George Moxon (1602-1687) was an English clergyman, which means he was a religious leader. He moved from England to live in Dorchester, Massachusetts, in America. He was an important figure in the early history of the American colonies.

Early Life and Education

George Moxon was born in Yorkshire, England, in 1602. He was one of seven brothers. He went to Wakefield Grammar School when he was younger.

Later, he studied at Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge, a famous university. In 1623, he earned a degree in Theology, which is the study of religion. In 1626, he became a minister. This was done by John Bridgeman, who was the Bishop of Chester.

His first job as a minister was working for Sir William Brereton at Handforth Hall. He served as a chaplain, helping with religious duties.

Moving to America

In the 1630s, many people called Puritans faced difficulties in England. They wanted to practice their religion in a simpler way. Because of these problems, George Moxon decided to move to America. He settled in Dorchester, Massachusetts, which was a new colony at the time.

Return to England

In 1652, George Moxon and his family returned to England. This happened after a book by William Pynchon called The Meritorious Price of Our Redemption was publicly burned. The book's ideas were seen as very controversial and against the common religious beliefs of the time. This event caused problems for Moxon, leading him to move back home.

The Great Ejection

After returning to England, George Moxon faced more challenges. In 1662, a new law called the Act of Uniformity 1662 was passed. This law made it harder for Puritan ministers to continue their work in the Church of England.

This law led to an event known as the Great Ejection. Thousands of Puritan ministers, including George Moxon, were forced to leave their church positions. Moxon was removed from his role in Eastbury. This was a difficult time for many religious leaders who believed strongly in their Puritan faith.