Samuel Wix facts for kids

Samuel Wix (1771–1861) was an English church leader and writer who lived a long time ago. He was known for his strong beliefs and for writing about important topics of his time.

Samuel Wix's Life

Samuel Wix was born in London on February 9, 1771. His father was Edward Wix. Samuel went to a school called Charterhouse School, and later studied at Christ's College, Cambridge University. He earned his first degree in 1796 and a master's degree in 1799.

After finishing his studies, Samuel became a deacon in the church in 1798 and a priest in 1800. He worked in several smaller church roles (called curacies) before becoming the main priest (called a vicar) of Inworth, Essex, in 1802. Six years later, he became the vicar of St Bartholomew's the Less in London. He was also the president of Sion College for a while.

Samuel Wix was a member of important groups like the Royal Society and the Society of Antiquaries of London. He passed away at the vicarage in St. Bartholomew's, London, on September 4, 1861. A special plaque was put up in the church to remember him.

Samuel Wix's Writings and Views

Samuel Wix was a traditionalist in the church, meaning he liked to follow older, established practices. He often got involved in discussions and debates about religious topics.

His first book was called Scriptural Illustrations of the Thirty-nine Articles. It was meant to help bring religious groups together. In 1818, he wrote another important book, Reflections concerning the Expediency of a Council of the Church of England and the Church of Rome being holden. This book suggested that the Church of England and the Church of Rome (Catholic Church) should hold a meeting to try and solve their differences. This idea caused a lot of discussion and even some angry replies from others, but it also made him a lifelong friend with Jerome, 4th Count de Salis-Soglio, who had the book translated into many languages.

Wix also disagreed with Catholic Emancipation, which was about giving more rights to Catholics in England. He wrote many pamphlets (small booklets) explaining his views on this topic. He also supported efforts to improve prisons and wrote a book in 1832 called Reflections Concerning the Expediency and Unchristian Character of Capital Punishments, which argued against the death penalty.

Samuel Wix's Family

Samuel Wix was married to Frances Walford. They had several children. Their oldest son was Edward Wix (1802–1866). Edward also became a church leader, serving as an archdeacon in Newfoundland. He later became the vicar of St. Michael's in Swanmore.

Edward Wix was a frequent writer for the Gentleman's Magazine. He also wrote his own books, including Six Months of a Newfoundland Missionary's Journal and A Retrospect of the Operations of the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in North America.