Thomas Lamplugh
Thomas Lamplugh was an English churchman who served as the Archbishop of York. He was known for his loyalty to King James II, which led to his appointment as Archbishop, although his Jacobitism was not deeply held, allowing him to participate in William III's coronation. Lamplugh also held positions as Dean of Rochester and Bishop of Exeter before his elevation to York.
Key Facts
- ›Son of Christopher Lamplugh of Thwing, Yorkshire.
- ›Educated at St Bees School and the Queen's College, Oxford.
- ›Served as Dean of Rochester from 1673 and Bishop of Exeter from 1676.
- ›Appointed Archbishop of York in 1688 as a reward for his loyalty to King James II.
- ›Assisted at William III's coronation despite his previous loyalty to James II.
- ›Died at Bishopthorpe on may 5, 1691, and was buried in York Minster.
Became Archbishop of York, Served As Dean of Rochester, Served As Bishop of Exeter
About Thomas Lamplugh
Thomas Lamplugh (baptized 1615 – 5 May 1691) was an English churchman who attained the significant ecclesiastical office of Archbishop of York.
Life and Historical Context
Born in Yorkshire, Lamplugh received his education at St Bees School and The Queen's College, Oxford. His ecclesiastical career progressed through several important positions. He served as the Dean of Rochester from 1673 and subsequently as the Bishop of Exeter from 1676. During his tenure as Bishop of Exeter, he retained the Rochester deanery in commendam until his elevation to the archbishopric of York in 1688.
Lamplugh's career was notably shaped by the political upheavals of his time. Upon learning of William of Orange's arrival at Brixham, he delivered a public address encouraging his diocese to maintain loyalty to King James II. Following this, Lamplugh fled to London. As a recognition of his demonstrated loyalty, James II secured for him the Archbishopric of York, which had been vacant for two years. Despite this appointment, Lamplugh's Jacobitism proved to be of limited depth, as he did not refuse to assist at the coronation of William III after his confirmation in the York see.
Major Contributions and Legacy
Lamplugh's primary contribution was his leadership of the Archdiocese of York. His career exemplifies the pragmatic navigation of political and religious shifts common among churchmen during the late 17th century in England. An inscription on his monument in York Minster suggests a character known for adapting his views to align with those in power, leading to the description of him as a "veritable Vicar of Bray."
Family
Thomas Lamplugh married Katherine Davenant on 25 November 1663 in Gillingham, Dorset. They had five children, including a surviving son, Thomas Davenant Lamplugh, D.D.
Death and Burial
Thomas Lamplugh died at Bishopthorpe on May 5, 1691. He was interred in York Minster on May 8, 1691.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Thomas Lamplugh's role in the church?
Thomas Lamplugh was an English churchman who rose to become the Archbishop of York. He also held earlier positions as Dean of Rochester and Bishop of Exeter.
Why was Thomas Lamplugh appointed Archbishop of York?
Lamplugh was appointed Archbishop of York as a reward for his loyalty to King James II. The see had been kept vacant for two years prior to his appointment.
What was Lamplugh's stance during the arrival of William of Orange?
When William of Orange arrived in Brixham, Bishop Lamplugh publicly urged his diocese to remain loyal to King James II. He fled to London with Dr. Annesley.
Did Lamplugh's loyalty to James II prevent his involvement with William III?
Although appointed by James II, Lamplugh's Jacobitism was not profound. He assisted at William III's coronation, indicating a pragmatic shift in allegiance.
Where is Thomas Lamplugh buried?
Thomas Lamplugh died at Bishopthorpe and was buried in York Minster on May 8, 1691.
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