John Sandale facts for kids

John Sandale (or Sandall) was a very important person in medieval England. He was from a region called Gascony. He held many powerful jobs for the king, Edward II. He was also a high-ranking leader in the church. Sandale served as a top financial officer and a chief advisor to the king. He eventually became the Bishop of Winchester, a major church position.

John Sandale's Early Life and Lands

John Sandale inherited land in Yorkshire, including the manor of Wheatley. A manor was a large estate with a village and farms. In 1301, he was given 'Free Warren'. This special right allowed him to hunt small animals like rabbits and hares on his land. He also owned land in Lincolnshire, including the manor of Great Coates. He received the same hunting rights there in 1313.

Starting His Career in the Church

Before his top government jobs, John Sandale was a church official. He was a canon at Lincoln and St. Paul's Cathedrals. A canon is a priest who works at a cathedral. He was also a provost at Wells. A provost is a senior church leader.

Holding Many Church Positions

John Sandale held many church jobs at the same time. This was common for important people back then. It was called being a "pluralist." He was chancellor of St Patrick's in Dublin. He was also treasurer of Lichfield and dean of St Paul's. He held positions in many other places too, from Dublin to Scotland. In 1315, he became the master of the hospital of St Katharine's by the Tower.

Working for the King of England

John Sandale held several important roles in the English government. These jobs were very powerful and helped run the country.

Financial Roles for the King

In 1307, when Edward II became king, Sandale was appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer. This role was like being the head of the country's money department. He was dismissed the next year for political reasons.

From 1298 to 1305, Sandale worked as the Warden of the Mint. This meant he was in charge of making coins for the kingdom. He also served as Lord High Treasurer from 1310 to 1311. This was another top job managing the king's money. He acted as treasurer again from 1312 to 1314.

Becoming Lord Chancellor

On September 26, 1314, John Sandale became the Lord Chancellor. This was one of the most important jobs in the government. The Lord Chancellor was the king's chief advisor and head of the royal court. He held this powerful position until June 11, 1318.

In November 1318, Sandale was again appointed Lord High Treasurer. He held this financial role until his death.

Bishop of Winchester

On July 26, 1316, John Sandale was chosen to be the Bishop of Winchester. This was a very high-ranking church position. He was officially consecrated, or made a bishop, on October 31, 1316.

His Final Years

John Sandale passed away on November 2, 1319. He was buried in St Mary Overie, a church in London.