Hezekiah Woodward facts for kids

Hezekiah Woodward (1590–1675) was an English minister and teacher. He was known for his strong beliefs and for writing many pamphlets. These pamphlets were like short books or articles. Hezekiah was a "nonconformist" minister. This means he did not agree with all the rules of the official Church of England. He also had new ideas about how children should be taught. He believed in teaching methods similar to those of Comenius, a famous educator. Hezekiah was also friends with Samuel Hartlib, another important thinker. He was one of the people who argued against celebrating Christmas during his time. This was a common view among a group called the Puritans.

Life of Hezekiah Woodward

In the early 1640s, Hezekiah Woodward worked as a preacher in Aldermanbury, London. During this time, he was connected to John Milton, a famous writer. They were both known for publishing many books and pamphlets. In December 1644, Woodward was questioned about his writings. He was released after two days. He admitted to writing some works, including an anonymous pamphlet called As You Were.

Later, Hezekiah Woodward became an Independent minister at St Michael's Church, Bray. An Independent minister belonged to a church that governed itself. However, in 1662, he was "ejected" from his position. This means he was forced to leave his job. This happened after the English Restoration in 1660. After being ejected, he moved to Uxbridge. There, he helped start the Old Meeting Congregational Church.

Hezekiah Woodward's Writings

Hezekiah Woodward often debated with other writers. He argued with Thomas Edwards, a major writer for the Presbyterian side. Presbyterians had different ideas about church organization. Woodward also supported Katherine Chidley in her arguments against Edwards.

As You Were Pamphlet

One of Woodward's important writings was As You Were: or a reducing (1644). He published this pamphlet anonymously. It supported John Goodwin, another religious leader. This pamphlet was a reply to Faces About, which was thought to be written by George Gillespie. Gillespie then wrote Wholesome Severity to argue back from the Presbyterian point of view. These writings were part of the "pamphlet wars." These were like public debates held through printed papers.

Ideas on Education

Hezekiah Woodward also wrote a lot about education. He believed that the grammar schools of his time were not teaching basic skills well enough. He thought this hurt the quality of later learning.

A Light to Grammar

In his book A Light to Grammar (1641), Woodward argued for a new way of teaching. He believed that learning should be exciting and encourage students to think. He wanted education to be based on stimulating students' minds.

A Gate to Science

Another book, A Gate to Science, focused on textbooks. Woodward thought textbooks should be clear and easy to understand. He wanted them to be realistic and make sense to students.

Parental Role in Upbringing

Woodward also believed that parents gave too much responsibility to teachers. He thought parents should be more involved in their children's learning. He wrote about his own schooling experiences in two books: A Childes Patrimony (1640) and Portion (1649).

Family

Hezekiah Woodward had two daughters. His daughter Frances married John Oxenbridge. His daughter Sarah married Daniel Henchman (c.1627-1685). Daniel Henchman was one of the people who helped found the city of Worcester, Massachusetts.