Nicholas Clagett the Elder facts for kids
Nicholas Clagett (around 1610 – 1662) was an English church leader. He was a Puritan, which meant he followed a strict form of Protestantism. He also became an 'ejected minister,' meaning he was removed from his church job because he didn't agree with the new rules after the king returned to power.
Early Life and Education
Nicholas Clagett was born around 1610 and was baptized in Canterbury on December 16, 1610. When he was 18, in 1628, he started studying at Merton College, Oxford. He earned his first degree, a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), in October 1631.
After that, he moved to another part of Oxford University called Magdalen Hall. There, he earned his Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in June 1634. People at the time thought he was very good at philosophy, which is the study of knowledge and existence.
Church Work and Challenges
Around 1636, Nicholas Clagett became the vicar of St Michael with St Mary's Church, Melbourne, in Derbyshire. A vicar is a type of priest or minister in charge of a local church.
Later, around 1644, he was chosen to be a lecturer or preacher at St. Mary's Church, Bury St. Edmunds, in Suffolk. He was very popular there, especially with a group known as the "precise party," who were likely strict Puritans.
After the Restoration in 1660, when the king returned to power in England, new rules were put in place for church ministers. Clagett was a "nonconformist," meaning he didn't agree with these new rules. Because of this, he was removed from his preaching job. This is why he is known as an "ejected minister."
Nicholas Clagett passed away by October 16, 1662, which is when his will was officially approved. He was buried in the main part of St Mary's Church in Bury St Edmunds.
His Family
Nicholas Clagett was married to Jane. She passed away in Bury St Edmunds on August 23, 1673. Nicholas and Jane had two sons who also became well-known ministers:
- William Clagett
- Nicholas Clagett the younger
