William Hooke (minister) facts for kids

William Hooke (1600–1677) was an English Puritan minister. He spent almost 20 years in New England, mainly in New Haven. He was an important religious figure during a time of big changes in England and America.

Who Was William Hooke?

William Hooke was born in 1600 in Hook, Hampshire, England. He started studying at Trinity College, Oxford in 1618. He earned his first degree (B.A.) in 1620 and his master's degree (M.A.) in 1623.

Becoming a Minister

After finishing his studies, Hooke became a priest. In 1627, he was made the vicar of Upper Clatford, Hampshire. Later, in 1632, he became the vicar of Axmouth in Devon. He was known as a Puritan, which meant he wanted to "purify" the Church of England.

Moving to New England

Around 1640, William Hooke moved to New England. Many Puritans moved there seeking religious freedom. He became a minister in the new settlement of Taunton, Massachusetts. He was a friend to other important ministers like Wilson and Mather.

A few years later, in 1644 or 1645, he moved to New Haven. There, he worked alongside John Davenport, who was the pastor. Hooke served as the "teacher," helping to explain religious ideas to the community.

Returning to England

In 1656, Hooke went back to England. He became a chaplain for Oliver Cromwell, who was then the leader of England (called the Protector). In 1658, he became the Master of the Savoy, a special position. The Savoy was a place where important religious meetings happened, like the one that created the Savoy Declaration.

Hooke continued to preach and stay involved in important events. He even preached at Cromwell's funeral in 1659.

Later Years and Legacy

After the king returned to power in England (this was called the English Restoration), Hooke stayed connected with his friends in New England. He even helped pass messages and news. He lived in London and continued his work as a minister. In 1672, he became a licensed minister in Spitalfields.

William Hooke passed away on March 21, 1677. He was buried in Bunhill Fields in London, a famous burial ground for many nonconformist Christians.

What Did William Hooke Write?

William Hooke wrote several important works during his life.

Sermons and Reports

In 1641, his sermon called New England's Teares for Old England's Feares was published in London. He had preached this sermon on a special day of prayer in 1640. He also sent a report about what was happening in New England to Oliver Cromwell in 1653. This report was later printed in a collection of important papers.

Books and Collaborations

Hooke also worked with John Davenport to write A Catechisme. This book explained the main ideas of the Christian faith. It was published in London in 1659 and was used by the church in New Haven.

He also helped edit a devotional book by John Davenport called The Saints Anchor-Hold in all Storms and Tempests. He worked on this with another minister named Joseph Caryl.

William Hooke's Family

William Hooke had an interesting family.

His Wife and Children

His wife was named Jane Hooke. Her mother was Frances Cromwell, who was a cousin of Oliver Cromwell. Jane was also the sister of Edward Whalley, who was involved in the trial of King Charles I. Jane Hooke returned to England in 1654 with their eight children.

His Son, John Hooke

William Hooke's son, John Hooke (1634–1710), also became an Independent preacher. He traveled to New England with his father but returned to England before him. John was also favored by Oliver Cromwell. In 1663, he became a chaplain at the Savoy, just like his father. He continued to be a minister and passed away in 1710 in Basingstoke.