Robert Evans (Archdeacon of Westmorland) facts for kids

Robert Wilson Evans (born August 30, 1789 – died March 10, 1866) was an English church leader and writer. He served as the Archdeacon of Westmorland from 1856 until just before he passed away.

Robert Evans's Early Life and Education

Robert Evans was born in Shrewsbury, England. He was the second son of John Evans, a doctor. Robert went to Shrewsbury School, where he was taught by Samuel Butler.

In 1807, he went to Trinity College, Cambridge. He was a very bright student! He became the "seventh wrangler", which means he was one of the top seven students in mathematics in his year. He also won the "second chancellor's medal" for his excellent work in classical studies. He earned his first degree in 1811.

Robert Evans's Career in the Church

After college, Robert Evans became a "fellow" at Trinity College in 1813. This meant he could teach and do research there. The next year, he became a "classical tutor," teaching subjects like ancient Greek and Latin.

In 1836, his old headmaster, Samuel Butler, became a bishop. He asked Robert Evans to be his "examining chaplain." This was an important role, helping the bishop with church duties. Butler also made Evans the "vicar" (the main priest) of Tarvin, a town in Cheshire. Robert Evans found a lot of church work to do there. He wrote about his experiences in a book called Bishopric of Souls.

In 1842, Robert Evans became the vicar of Heversham. This area was then in Westmorland. One of the first things he did was build a new house for the vicar. It was on a hill, giving him a beautiful view.

He was made the Archdeacon of Westmorland in 1856. An archdeacon is a senior church official who helps a bishop manage a part of the church's area. He retired from this role in January 1865 because he was getting older. Robert Evans died at his home in Heversham on March 10, 1866, when he was 76 years old.

Robert Evans's Books and Writings

Robert Evans was a busy writer. He wrote many books and sermons (talks given in church). Here are some examples of his works:

• A Course of Sermons preached before the University of Cambridge (1830)
• The Rectory of Valehead (1830) – This book was very popular and had many editions.
• The Church of God, in a series of Sermons (1832)
• Hymns for the Christian Workman (1840) – He wrote songs for people to sing.
• Tales of the Ancient British Church (1840) – Stories about the early church in Britain.
• The Bishopric of Souls (1842) – This book shared his experiences as a vicar.
• A Treatise on Versification (1852) – A book about how to write poetry.
• England under God (1862)

He also wrote five books for a series called Rivington's Theological Library. These included:

• Scripture Biography (1834) – Stories about people from the Bible.
• Biography of the Early Church (1836) – Stories about important people from the early days of the Christian church.