Thomas Goldwell (prior) facts for kids

Thomas Goldwell was an important leader at Christ Church Priory in Canterbury, England. He was the last prior (which is like the head of a monastery) before the priory was closed down. This happened during a big event in English history called the Dissolution of the Monasteries in March 1540. Thomas Goldwell started his job as prior in 1517.

Goldwell and the King's Changes

During his time as prior, Thomas Goldwell had to deal with major changes happening in England. King Henry VIII wanted to be the head of the church in England, not the Pope. This was called the royal supremacy.

Working with Thomas Cromwell

Thomas Goldwell wrote letters to Thomas Cromwell, who was a very powerful advisor to King Henry VIII. In these letters, Goldwell talked about a woman named Elizabeth Barton, also known as the "Maid of Kent." She was known for making prophecies (predictions about the future). Goldwell mentioned that his archbishop, William Warham, believed many of her words.

Accepting the King's Authority

On December 10, 1534, Thomas Goldwell and 69 other monks from his priory signed a document. This document said they accepted the king's new role as the head of the church. From that moment until the priory was closed, Goldwell made sure his monastery followed the rules set by King Henry VIII and Thomas Cromwell.

Royal Visitors

In the summer of 1537, King Henry VIII and his wife, Jane Seymour, visited Canterbury. Thomas Goldwell welcomed them at St Augustine's Abbey during their journey through the country.

After the Priory Closed

Because Thomas Goldwell was loyal to the king and kept his monastery obedient, he was rewarded. After Christ Church Priory was given to the king in March 1539, Goldwell received a yearly payment of £80. He also got a new job as a prebendary (a type of church official) at the new Cathedral that was set up after the monastery closed. This reward was given to him by Thomas Cranmer, who was the archbishop at the time.