William Cole (scholar) facts for kids

William Cole (born December 8, 1753 – died September 25, 1806) was an English expert in ancient Greek and Roman studies, also known as a classical scholar. He spent his life learning, teaching, and working in the church.

William Cole's Life Story

William Cole was born on December 8, 1753, in a place called Mersham in Kent, England. When he was young, a family friend named John Chapman helped him a lot. Chapman was an important church official.

Early School Days

Chapman first sent William to Ashford Grammar School. After that, he went to a private school in Bierton, near Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire. In 1766, William got a scholarship to Eton College, which is a very famous school.

University and Beyond

In 1773, William became a student at King's College, Cambridge, and later a fellow in 1776. This meant he was a senior member of the college. He earned his first university degree (B.A.) in 1778 and his second (M.A.) in 1781.

In 1777, he went back to Eton as a teacher. However, he had a health problem (a ruptured blood-vessel) from his time at university, which made him not strong enough for the job. So, he left in 1780.

Tutor and Church Roles

After leaving Eton, William became a private teacher, or tutor, to George, Marquess of Blandford, and Lord Henry Spencer. These were the sons of the Duke of Marlborough. William also became the Duke's chaplain, which means he was a priest serving the Duke's family.

In 1781, the Duke of Marlborough helped William become the priest in charge of a church parish in Waddesdon, Buckinghamshire. He stayed there until 1788. Then, the Archbishop of Canterbury chose him to be the priest in charge of the church in Mersham, Kent, where he was born.

In 1792, William received a special position at Westminster Abbey in London. In 1795, he earned a higher degree (D.D.) from the Archbishop. The next year, in 1796, he became the vicar of Shoreham, Kent.

Family and Passing

In 1795, William married Mary, who was the second daughter of Sir William Blackstone, a famous judge. They did not have any children.

William Cole passed away on September 24, 1806. He was buried in the famous Westminster Abbey in London.

William Cole's Writings

William Cole wrote several pieces during his life.

Speeches and Poems

He dedicated a speech called Oratio de Ridiculo to the Marquis of Blandford, one of his former students. This speech won the first of Sir William Browne's medals, which were awards for academic achievements. He had this speech printed along with some Latin poems in 1780.

Other Contributions

William also wrote a Latin explanation that was included in the second volume of the Marlborough Gems. This was a special book about a collection of valuable ancient carvings, printed privately for the Duke of Marlborough. Besides these, he also wrote several sermons, which are speeches given in church.