John Kirkby (bishop of Ely) facts for kids

John Kirkby (who passed away on March 26, 1290) was an important English church leader and a skilled government official. He served King Edward I in many key roles.

Early Career and Royal Service

John Kirkby first appears in history during the time of King Henry III of England. When Henry's son, Edward I, became king, Kirkby was given the important job of vice-chancellor. This meant he often looked after the Great Seal, which was used to make official documents, especially when the main Chancellor was away.

Working for King Edward I

King Edward I trusted Kirkby a lot. In 1282, Kirkby helped the king by collecting money for his military campaigns in Wales. As a reward, Edward gave Kirkby several church positions, called benefices, even though Kirkby wasn't yet a priest. One of these positions was Archdeacon of Coventry.

Becoming a Key Government Official

John Kirkby became the Lord Treasurer in January 1284 and held this powerful role until he passed away. As Treasurer, he was in charge of the king's money.

Improving the Royal Finances

Kirkby likely led many important changes in how the royal treasury managed money. He helped update how records were kept and improved how the government collected its income. He also worked hard to collect debts owed to the king.

Kirkby's Quest

In 1285, Kirkby directed a special survey across different English counties. This survey was called Kirkby's Quest. It helped find out who owed money to the king, how different villages were organized, and who held land in exchange for military service.

Dealing with London's Problems

Also in 1285, King Edward I asked Kirkby to lead a special group investigating problems in London. Kirkby called the city's mayor and other leaders to the Tower of London. When the mayor resigned in protest, Kirkby took control of the city. London didn't have a mayor again until 1298.

Church Career

John Kirkby also had a significant career in the church, eventually becoming a bishop.

Challenges to Becoming a Bishop

In 1283, Kirkby was chosen to be the Bishop of Rochester. However, the Archbishop of Canterbury, John Peckham, disagreed with this choice. Peckham objected because Kirkby held multiple church positions at once, which was called being a pluralist. Because of this, Kirkby did not become Bishop of Rochester.

Bishop of Ely

On July 26, 1286, Kirkby was elected Bishop of Ely. This time, Archbishop Peckham did not object to his appointment. Kirkby was then ordained as a priest and consecrated as a bishop on September 22, 1286. He officially took his place at Ely Cathedral on December 24, 1286.

Later Life and Legacy

John Kirkby passed away in Ely on March 26, 1290, after falling ill. He was buried in Ely Cathedral.

Family and Gifts

When he died, Kirkby left his property to his brother, Sir William, and his four married sisters. He was also very generous to his church, leaving them some property in London, including a place known as Ely Place. A marble tomb slab in Ely Cathedral might be from his original tomb.