Richard Sutton (lawyer) facts for kids

Sir Richard Sutton (born around 1460, died about 1524) was an English lawyer. He is famous for helping to create Brasenose College, Oxford. He founded the college with William Smyth, who was a bishop. Sir Richard was special because he was the first person who wasn't a church leader to help start a college. This is what "lay founder" means.

Early Life and Career

Sir Richard Sutton was born in a place called Sutton in Cheshire, England. He was the younger son of Sir William Sutton, who was a rich landowner. His father also managed a hospital in Leicestershire.

Richard Sutton became a barrister, which is a type of lawyer. Barristers speak for people in court. In 1499, he became part of the King's special group of advisors, called the privy council. This group helped the King make important decisions.

Later, in 1513, he took on a new role. He became the manager, or "steward," for the monastery of Sion. This was a home for nuns in Isleworth. He helped manage their money and property.

Founding Brasenose College

It's not fully known how Sir Richard Sutton and Bishop William Smyth decided to start a new college. But in 1508, a person named Edmund Croston left some money in his will. He wanted this money to help build "a college of Brasynnose." This would happen if the plans of "the bishop of Lincoln and master Sotton" went ahead.

In the same year, Sir Richard Sutton rented two important buildings in Oxford. These were Brasenose Hall and Little University Hall. He rented them for 92 years. From that time until he died, he worked hard to buy land and properties. He wanted these to provide money for the new college. This is called "endowing" a college.

Later Life and Legacy

Sir Richard Sutton also helped other colleges. People believe he gave money to Corpus Christi College, Oxford.

He was made a knight a few years before he passed away. Sir Richard Sutton died around the year 1524. His work helped create one of Oxford University's well-known colleges.