Robert Burscough facts for kids

Robert Burscough (born in 1651, died in July 1709) was an English church leader and writer. He was known for his strong support of the Church of England during his lifetime.

Early Life and Education

Robert Burscough was born in 1651 in a place called Cartmel, in Lancashire, England. His father's name was Thomas Burscough.

When he was 17, in 1668, Robert went to Queen's College, Oxford University. He studied there as a "servitor," which meant he worked to help pay for his education. He earned his first degree (B.A.) in 1672 and a higher degree (M.A.) in 1682.

His Church Career

In 1681, King Charles II gave Robert Burscough an important job. He became the vicar (a type of priest) at St Mary's Church in Totnes, Devon. He took over this role from another famous writer named John Prince.

Later, Robert continued to rise in the church. In 1701, he became a "prebendary" at Exeter Cathedral. This was a special position linked to the cathedral. Then, in 1703, he was made the "archdeacon of Barnstaple," which is a senior leader in the church.

A historian named Anthony à Wood described Robert Burscough as a very smart person. He said Robert was dedicated to the Church of England and lived a very good example for others.

Important Writings

Robert Burscough wrote several books about the church and its rules. These books often discussed how the church should be organized and how to keep it united.

Some of his notable works include:

• A Treatise of Church Government (1692): This book was about how the church should be run.
• A Discourse of Schism (1699): This book talked about disagreements and divisions within the church.
• A Vindication of the “Discourse of Schism (1701): In this book, he defended his earlier ideas about church divisions.
• A Discourse of the Unity of the Church (1704): This work focused on the importance of the church staying together.
• A Vindication of the Twenty-third Article of Religion (1702): This book explained and defended one of the important beliefs of the Church of England.

Later Life

Robert Burscough passed away in July 1709. He was buried in Bath, Somerset, on July 29, 1709.

Some people believed that William Burscough, who became a bishop in Ireland much later (from 1725 to 1755), was Robert's son. However, there is no proof or evidence to support this connection between the two men.