Ralph Kettell facts for kids
Ralph Kettell (born 1563, died 1643) was an important English leader at a university. He was the third President of Trinity College, Oxford, a famous college in England. During his many years in charge, he helped the college grow a lot. He improved its buildings and made its learning programs much better.
Early Life and Education
Ralph Kettell was born in 1563 in King's Langley, Hertfordshire. He was the third son of John Kettell, who was a gentleman. In 1578, he received a special scholarship to study at Trinity College. This scholarship was given by Lady Elizabeth Paulet. She was the wife of Sir Thomas Pope, who founded Trinity College.
While at Trinity, Ralph Kettell became friends with Edward Hoby. Kettell worked hard and became a Fellow of the college in 1583. He earned several degrees: a Bachelor of Arts in 1582, a Master of Arts in 1586, and a Doctor of Divinity in 1597.
Leading Trinity College
After holding different jobs at the college, Ralph Kettell was chosen to be the President in 1599. He took over after the death of Arthur Yeldard. Kettell was a tutor and president for many students who later became famous. Some of these students included important bishops like Gilbert Sheldon and Robert Skinner. Other notable students were James Harrington and Henry Ireton. Even the founders of Maryland, George Calvert, 1st Baron Baltimore and Cecilius Calvert, 2nd Baron Baltimore, studied under him.
Kettell worked to improve the college's buildings. He rebuilt the college hall. He also added extra rooms, called 'cocklofts', to the old Durham College quadrangle. Part of this old building still stands today. Around 1620, he built a stone house in Broad Street. This building is still known as Kettell Hall and later became part of the college.
Challenges and Legacy
Ralph Kettell was one of the older leaders at the university. He did not always agree with the changes made by William Laud, who was a powerful figure. Kettell also protected old paintings in the college chapel. He saved them from a commissioner named William Fiennes, 1st Viscount Saye and Sele, who wanted to remove them.
Outside of Oxford, Kettell was also a rector at Garsington. This job was connected to his role as president. He also worked as a private chaplain for important people like Sir Francis Walsingham's widow.
A writer named John Aubrey knew Kettell when he was old. Aubrey wrote down many interesting stories about him. Ralph Kettell passed away around July 17, 1643. He was buried in Garsington on August 5.
Images for kids
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Kettell Hall, a building in Oxford, was built by Ralph Kettell.
