James Hargraves facts for kids
James Hargraves (born 1690, died 1741) was an important English church leader. He was a priest in the Church of England. Later, he became the Dean of Chichester Cathedral in 1739. This was a very important job in the church.
His Early Life
James Hargraves grew up in Wakefield, Yorkshire. His father was Nathaniel Hargrave. James went to school in his hometown.
In 1709, he started studying at Clare College, Cambridge. He earned his first degree, a Bachelor of Arts (BA), in 1711 or 1712. He then continued his studies, getting his Master of Arts (MA) in 1715. Later, in 1728, he received a Doctor of Divinity (DD) degree.
His Church Career
James Hargraves became a priest in 1712 or 1713. His career in the church moved quickly.
Here are some of the important roles he held:
- In 1718, he became the Rector of East Hoathly. This area was home to the Duke of Newcastle's large estate.
- In 1723, he became a Prebendary of Thorney in Sussex. This meant he held a special position in a cathedral or church.
- In 1724, he was chosen to be a Chaplain to the King.
- In 1725, he became a Prebendary of Westminster.
- From 1730 to 1734, he was the Rector of St Margaret's, Westminster.
- Finally, in 1739, he became the Dean of Chichester. He held this important position until he died.
In 1726, James Hargraves was also chosen to be a Fellow of the Royal Society. This was a big honor for his knowledge and work. He died on December 4, 1741, and was buried in Chichester Cathedral.
A Powerful Friend
James Hargraves had a very powerful friend and supporter: Thomas Pelham-Holles, the Duke of Newcastle. The Pelham family had been important in Sussex for a long time. In 1711, Thomas Pelham inherited a huge amount of land and money, becoming the Duke of Newcastle. He was one of the wealthiest men in England.
The Duke of Newcastle was a strong supporter of the Whig party. This was one of the main political groups in Britain at the time. Because of his wealth and influence, he had a lot of power. He could even help choose members of Parliament. People in Sussex respected him greatly.
Hargraves first met the Duke when he was the Duke's tutor at Clare College, Cambridge. Even though Hargraves was from Yorkshire, the Duke brought him to Sussex to be his chaplain. The Duke used his connections to help many church leaders in Sussex get better jobs.
The Duke really wanted Hargraves to become the Dean of Chichester. He even tried to get the previous dean, Thomas Hayley, to step down so Hargraves could take the job. However, Hayley decided to keep the position. Still, with the Duke's help, Hargraves quickly moved up in the church. He became Dean of Chichester after Hayley passed away in 1739.
Hargraves continued to tutor members of the Pelham family. He also spent a lot of time helping the Whig party in elections for Parliament. This shows how closely politics and church life were linked in Sussex during the 1700s. The Duke of Newcastle and James Hargraves remained good friends until Hargraves' death in 1741.
