Zacheus Isham facts for kids

Zacheus Isham (born 1651, died 1705) was an important clergyman in the Church of England. He also wrote many religious books. He was the son of Thomas Isham, who was a church leader in Barby, Northamptonshire. His mother was Mary Isham. Zacheus was also the grandson of another Zacheus Isham.

Early Life and Learning

Studying at Oxford

Zacheus started studying at Christ Church, Oxford in 1666. He worked hard and earned several degrees there. He received his first degree, a Bachelor of Arts, in 1671. Later, he earned his Master of Arts in 1674. He continued his studies, getting a Bachelor of Divinity in 1682. Finally, he earned his Doctor of Divinity degree in 1689.

Travel and Art

After finishing his first degree in 1671, Zacheus became a tutor. He taught his cousin, Sir Thomas Isham, 3rd Baronet. Zacheus traveled with Sir Thomas to places like Italy. During their travels, they collected many beautiful art pieces. These artworks can still be seen today at Lamport Hall in Northamptonshire.

A Career in the Church

Important Roles

When Zacheus returned from his travels, he took on new roles. In 1679, he became a speaker at the Divinity School, Oxford. This school was a place for religious learning. In 1683, he gave a speech honoring Sir Thomas Bodley. Sir Thomas was famous for starting the Bodleian Library.

Around 1685, Zacheus became a chaplain to Henry Compton. Compton was the bishop of London. A chaplain is like a personal priest or advisor.

Becoming a Canon

From 1685 to 1686, Zacheus became a prebendary at St. Paul's Cathedral. This role is similar to being a canon. A canon is a special priest who works at a cathedral. In 1691, he became a canon at Canterbury Cathedral. This is one of the most important churches in England.

Leading a Church

In 1694, Zacheus took over from his father-in-law, Thomas Pittis. He became the Rector of St. Botolph's, Bishopsgate in London. A rector is the main priest in charge of a church. In 1696, he represented the clergy (church leaders) from the diocese of London. This happened at a special meeting called a convocation.

His last church role began in 1701. He became the Rector of Solihull, Warwickshire. Zacheus Isham passed away there on July 5, 1705. He was buried in the Solihull Church. There is a special monument to him on the church floor.

Family Life

Zacheus Isham was married to Elizabeth Pittis. Elizabeth was the daughter of Rev. Thomas Pittis. Her father was a chaplain to King Charles II. Zacheus and Elizabeth had eight children together. They had four sons and four daughters. One of their daughters, Mary, married Arthur Brooke. Arthur Brooke was the grandfather of Sir Richard de Capell Brooke.

Published Works

Zacheus Isham was also a writer. He published several religious books and sermons.

• He wrote many sermons, which are speeches given in church. One sermon was about the death of Dr. John Scott in 1694. This sermon was later included in a book called Wilford's Memorials.
• In 1695, he published The Catechism of the Church, with Proofs from the New Testament. A catechism is a book of questions and answers about religious beliefs.
• He also wrote Philosophy containing the Book of Job, Proverbs, and Wisdom, with explanatory notes. This book was published in 1706, after his death.
• A short piece he wrote is kept in the Bodleian Library. It is called The Catechism of the Church, with Proofs from the New Testament, and some additional questions and answers. This was written in 1694.
• Zacheus Isham also signed an important statement. It was for a book by George Keith. The book was called George Keith's Fourth Narrative ... detecting the Quakers' Gross Errors in Quotations ....