William Holmes (academic) facts for kids

William Holmes (born April 5, 1689 – died April 4, 1748) was an important English academic. He held several big jobs at the University of Oxford, including Vice-Chancellor and Regius Professor of Modern History. He was also the Dean of Exeter for a few years.

Who Was William Holmes?

William Holmes was a very smart person who spent most of his life working in universities. He was known for his leadership and for helping to shape how students learned at Oxford. He held many different roles, from being a student to leading one of Oxford's colleges.

Early Life and Education

William Holmes was born on April 5, 1689, in London, England. His parents were Thomas and Margaret Holmes. He started his schooling at Merchant Taylors' School in London when he was 12 years old.

After school, he went to St John's College, Oxford, in 1707. He worked hard and became a Fellow in 1710. This meant he was a senior member of the college. He earned his first degree, a Bachelor of Arts, in 1711. Later, in 1715, he got his Master of Arts degree.

Leading Oxford University

William Holmes took on many important roles at Oxford. In 1721, he became a proctor, which is like a university official who helps keep things running smoothly. He continued his studies, earning his Bachelor of Divinity degree in 1722 and his Doctorate of Divinity in 1725.

President of St John's College

In 1728, Holmes was chosen to be the President of St John's College. This was a very important leadership position. He stayed in this role for many years, until 1748. As President, he made sure students received a good education. He even had a special letter from the college's founder, Sir Thomas White, printed for new students. This letter encouraged everyone to work together peacefully.

Vice-Chancellor of Oxford

From 1732 to 1735, Holmes served as the Vice-Chancellor of Oxford University. This is one of the highest positions at the university. In this role, he was like the chief executive of the whole university. He even presented official messages from the university to the royal family. For example, he did this when Princess Anne married William, Prince of Orange.

Regius Professor of Modern History

In 1736, William Holmes became the Regius Professor of Modern History at Oxford. This meant he was a special professor who taught about modern history. He held this teaching position until 1742.

Supporting Learning and Music

Holmes was a big supporter of good education. He also helped bring music to the university. In 1733, he brought back a special university ceremony called "the act." He even invited the famous composer George Frideric Handel to perform music before and after the event. Handel also performed inside the Sheldonian Theatre several times, which was a big deal.

Later Life and Legacy

In 1742, King George II chose William Holmes to be the Dean of Exeter Cathedral. He held this position until he passed away.

William Holmes died on April 4, 1748. He was buried in the chapel at St John's College, Oxford. His wife, Sarah, had a monument built there to remember him. He also left money and property to St John's College in his will, showing how much he cared about the university.

Works

William Holmes is known for one book, which was published without his name on it in 1742. It was called The Country Parson's Advice to his Parishioners … of the Younger Sort.