Roger Keys facts for kids

Roger Keys (also spelled Keyes) was an important English church leader and scholar who lived a long time ago. He was in charge of All Souls' College, Oxford, a famous university college, from 1442 to 1445. He passed away in 1477.

Roger Keys' Life and Work

Roger Keys first appears in history in 1437. At that time, he worked alongside John Druell (who later became a senior church official called an Archdeacon). They were in charge of building All Souls' College, Oxford. This big project was started by Archbishop Henry Chichele, a very important church leader.

Roger Keys was one of the first members, called 'fellows', of All Souls' College. He took over as the 'Warden' (the head of the college) in 1442, after Richard Andrews. He held this important job for three years.

Working for the King

In 1448, King Henry VI of England asked Roger Keys to help with a new royal school called Eton College. Roger was put in charge of the building work there.

For all his hard work at Eton, King Henry VI gave Roger and his brother, Thomas Keys, a special honor. On May 19, 1449, they received a 'grant of arms' and a 'patent of nobility'. This meant they were given a family crest and a special title, making them part of the noble class.

Roger Keys also became the Archdeacon of Barnstaple on January 25, 1450. He held this church position until 1460.

Later Years and Legacy

Later in his life, Roger Keys worked at Exeter Cathedral. He was the 'precentor' there in 1467 and 1469, a role that involved leading the singing and services. He likely held this job until he died.

In 1469, Roger Keys gave a gift of books to Exeter College, Oxford. He died on November 11, 1477, and was buried in Exeter.