John Harris (Warden) facts for kids

A portrait of John Harris.

John Harris (born around 1588, died 1658) was an important English scholar and church leader. He taught Greek at Oxford University, led Winchester College for many years, and was part of a special group called the Westminster Assembly.

Early Life and Education

John Harris was born in Hardwicke, Buckinghamshire, England, around the year 1588. His father, Richard Harris, was a church leader in Hardwicke.

John went to Winchester College as a student in 1599. Later, from 1606 to 1622, he was a Fellow at New College, Oxford. He earned his Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in 1611.

A Talented Scholar

John Harris became very well-known for his knowledge of Greek and for his preaching. A famous scholar named Henry Savile even said that Harris was as good as John Chrysostom, a very important ancient Greek speaker.

In 1617, Harris was chosen as one of the university proctors, who help manage the university. In 1619, he became the Regius Professor of Greek. This was a special role where he taught Greek at Oxford University.

Leading Roles

Harris left his teaching job in 1622. He then received several church positions. In 1628, he became the rector (head priest) of a church in Meon-Stoke, Hampshire.

In September 1630, John Harris was chosen to be the Warden of Winchester College. This meant he was the head of the college. While he was Warden, he oversaw the building of "Sickhouse," a new building completed by 1656.

Role During the English Civil War

During the First English Civil War, John Harris supported the Presbyterians. These were people who wanted to change the way the church was run. He was chosen to be part of the Westminster Assembly, a group of important church leaders.

Harris took certain promises, like the Solemn League and Covenant, which allowed him to keep his job as Warden of Winchester College. He also had a good relationship with Nathaniel Fiennes, a leader on the Parliament's side.

Protecting Winchester College

In 1649, a group from Parliament visited Winchester College. This group included powerful figures. However, John Harris was able to explain how the college worked very well. Because of his clear explanation, no big changes were made to the college or its staff.

John Harris passed away at Winchester on August 11, 1658, when he was 70 years old. He was buried in the college chapel.

Written Works

John Harris also wrote a biography (a life story) of Arthur Lake. This story was included at the beginning of Lake's book of Sermons in 1639.

He also wrote letters to William Twisse. These letters, along with Twisse's answers, were published by Henry Jeanes in 1653.