Richard Neile

Richard Neile (1562 – 1640)

Richard Neile was a prominent English churchman and bishop who set a record by successively holding bishoprics in six different English dioceses, culminating in his appointment as Archbishop of York from 1631 until his death. Born in Westminster and educated at Westminster School and St John's College, Cambridge, Neile benefited from the patronage of the Burghley family, serving as chaplain to Lord Burghley and his son Robert Cecil.

Career and Significance

Neile's ecclesiastical career saw him appointed to numerous high-profile positions. He served as vicar of Cheshunt and rector of Toddington, and was Master of the Savoy. From 1603 to 1632, he held the important office of Clerk of the Closet. His episcopal appointments began in 1608 with Rochester, followed by Lichfield and Coventry (1610), Lincoln (1614), Durham (1617), and Winchester (1628). His tenure as Archbishop of York began in 1631.

Key Events and Associations

During his time as bishop, Neile appointed William Laud as his chaplain. He was entrusted by King James I to manage the transportation of Mary, Queen of Scots' body to Westminster Abbey in 1612. Neile's political engagement was recognized with a privy councillorship in 1627, and he regularly sat in the courts of Star Chamber and High Commission. His correspondence with prominent figures like William Laud, Sir Dudley Carleton, and Sir Francis Windebank offers valuable historical insights.

Neile was also associated with significant, albeit controversial, events. He was involved in the last execution for heresy in England, the burning at the stake of Edward Wightman in 1612. Later, during his archiepiscopate, Oliver Cromwell delivered a notable speech in Parliament, reportedly criticizing Neile, possibly over his Arminian theological views.

Family

Richard Neile was the father of Sir Paul Neile, an astronomer and politician, and the grandfather of the mathematician William Neile. His brother, also named William Neile, was a book collector.