Thomas D'Oyly facts for kids
Thomas D'Oyly was an English antiquary, which means he was a person who studied old things, history, and ancient objects. He was active around the year 1585.
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Early Life and Education
Thomas D'Oyly was born around the year 1530. His father was Sir Henry D'Oyly, a knight from Pondhall in Hadleigh, Suffolk. His mother was Jane, who was the only child of William Ellwyn from Wiggenhall St. Germans, Norfolk.
In 1555, Thomas D'Oyly became a member of Gray's Inn. This was a famous place in London where people went to study law and become lawyers.
Working with Archbishop Parker
By 1559, Thomas D'Oyly was working for Archbishop Matthew Parker. An archbishop is a very important leader in the church. D'Oyly served as a "steward," meaning he helped manage the archbishop's household and affairs.
He quickly became a favorite of Archbishop Parker. Because of his good work, he was given a special degree called D.C.L. This stands for Doctor of Civil Law, which is a high academic honor in law.
Where He Lived
Thomas D'Oyly lived in several different places during his life. He spent time in Croydon, which is in Surrey. He also lived in Layham, Suffolk, and in London, specifically in the area of St Dunstan-in-the-West. He was still alive in 1585.
His Writings and Studies
Thomas D'Oyly was a member of the Society of Antiquaries of London. This was a group of people who were very interested in studying history, old documents, and ancient objects.
He wrote two important papers for this society. These papers were later published in a book called Collection of Curious Discourses by Thomas Hearne.
One of his papers was about Of the Antiquity of Arms. This likely discussed the history and meaning of coats of arms and family symbols. The other paper was written in French. It was titled Of the Etymology, Dignity, and Antiquity of Dukes. This paper explored the origins, importance, and history of the title "Duke."
His Family Life
Thomas D'Oyly was married two times. His first marriage was to Elizabeth Bendish when he was very young, barely seventeen years old. Elizabeth was the only child of Ralph Bendish from Topsfield Hall in Hadleigh, Suffolk. She passed away on August 2, 1553.
His second marriage took place in Hadleigh on February 11, 1565. He married Anne Crosse from the same town. Thomas D'Oyly had children from both of his marriages. His oldest son from his second marriage, also named Thomas D'Oyly, married Joane Baker. Joane was the niece of the important church leader, Archbishop Parker.
