William of Kilkenny facts for kids

Quick facts for kids William of Kilkenny
Bishop of Ely
Memorial to Bishop William de Kilkenny in Ely Cathedral
Elected	c. 29 September 1254
Reign ended	21 September 1256
Predecessor	Hugh of Northwold
Successor	Hugh of Balsham
Other posts	Archdeacon of Coventry
Orders
Consecration	15 August 1255 by Boniface of Savoy
Personal details
Died	21 September 1256 Spain
Denomination	Catholic

William of Kilkenny (died 21 September 1256) was an important person in English history. He served as a top government official, known as the Lord Chancellor of England. He also held a high religious position as the Bishop of Ely.

William's Early Career

William of Kilkenny began his career working for the king. By 1234, he was a "king's clerk." This meant he was a trusted official who helped the king with important tasks.

He traveled to Rome twice for the king. These trips happened between 1234 and 1235, and again in 1237. Traveling to Rome in those days was a long and difficult journey!

In 1238, William left the king's service for a while. He then worked for two bishops in Durham. These bishops were Nicholas of Farnham and Richard Poore.

Returning to Royal Service

By May 1247, William was back working for the king. King Henry III of England sent him on another trip overseas. This shows how much the king trusted William with important missions.

William held several key roles during this time. From November 1247, he was the Archdeacon of Coventry. An archdeacon is a senior church official who helps a bishop manage a large area.

He also worked in the king's government. From 1249 to 1252, he was the controller of the wardrobe. This job involved managing the king's finances and household.

Becoming Lord Chancellor

From 1250 to 1255, William of Kilkenny served as the Lord Chancellor. This was one of the most powerful jobs in the kingdom. The Lord Chancellor was the king's chief minister and legal advisor. They were in charge of many important government documents and decisions.

Bishop of Ely

William was chosen to become the Bishop of Ely around September 29, 1254. A bishop is a high-ranking leader in the Christian church. The "see of Ely" refers to the area a bishop oversees, which includes the famous Ely Cathedral.

He was officially made a bishop on August 15, 1255. This special ceremony took place in Bellay, a town in Savoy. He was consecrated by Boniface of Savoy, who was the Archbishop of Canterbury. The Archbishop of Canterbury is the most senior bishop in the Church of England.

William's Final Years

William of Kilkenny died on September 21, 1256. He passed away in Spain, where he was on another important diplomatic mission for the king.

After his death, William's heart was sent back to England. It was buried in Ely Cathedral, a very grand and historic church. He had even built an impressive tomb for himself there. This tomb is still in Ely Cathedral today, near the high altar.

William's only known family member was a nephew. This nephew owned land in Waterford and became a knight in 1254.