Matthias Alleyn facts for kids

Matthias Alleyn (died 9 April 1642) was a gentleman from London in the 1600s. He became the second leader, or Master, of the College of God's Gift.

About Matthias Alleyn's Early Life

Matthias Alleyn was born in London. He was a cousin of Edward Alleyn, who founded the College of God's Gift. Matthias had two daughters with his second wife. His son, John Alleyn, later became the Warden and then Master of the same College. John was the last family member of Edward Alleyn to hold these important positions.

Matthias Alleyn's Role at Dulwich College

Becoming Warden of the College

Edward Alleyn created the College of God's Gift in Dulwich. This school is now commonly known as "Dulwich College". Edward Alleyn set a rule that the Master and Warden of the College should be unmarried. They also had to be related to him by blood and share his last name. If being unmarried wasn't possible, they at least needed the Alleyn surname.

Matthias Alleyn and his cousin Thomas met these rules. Thomas became the first Master. Edward Alleyn chose Matthias to be the Warden in the College's founding document on September 13, 1619. However, Edward Alleyn was still very involved in his charity. So, Matthias and Thomas did not officially start their jobs until Edward Alleyn passed away in 1626. Matthias also helped Edward Alleyn's widow and managed his will.

Serving as Master of the College

Matthias Alleyn became the Master of the College on March 27, 1631. This happened after Thomas Alleyn died. Some people have noted that for a long time, the leaders of the College did not focus much on Edward Alleyn's original goals. His goal was to prepare poor students well for the world.

The strict rules about who could become Master or Warden meant that not many people could apply. This sometimes led to leaders who were not the best choice. Matthias Alleyn was not seen as an exception to this trend.

Matthias Alleyn's Legacy

Matthias Alleyn died on April 9, 1642. Another cousin of the founder, a second Thomas Alleyn, took over as Master. This Thomas Alleyn had been the Warden while Matthias was Master. Matthias Alleyn gave a silver bowl to the College. The College still has this special gift today.