Walter Giffard
Walter Giffard was an English churchman who served as Lord Chancellor of England and later as Archbishop of York. Born around 1225, he studied at Cambridge and Oxford before taking holy orders and rising through the ecclesiastical ranks. His significant secular role as Lord Chancellor was followed by his appointment to the Archbishopric of York, where he played a part in national governance.
Key Facts
- ›Served as Lord Chancellor of England from 1265 to 1266.
- ›Elected Bishop of Bath and Wells in 1264, consecrated in Paris.
- ›Appointed Archbishop of York on October 15, 1266.
- ›Assisted in governing England during Prince Edward's absence.
- ›Officiated at the translation of Edward the Confessor's relics.
- ›Died on or about April 22, 1279, and buried in York Minster.
Lord Chancellor of England, Archbishop of York, Bishop of Bath and Wells, Papal Chaplain, Arbitrator For the Dictum of Kenilworth
About Walter Giffard
Walter Giffard (c. 1225 – April 1279) was a prominent English churchman who held significant secular and ecclesiastical offices, notably serving as Lord Chancellor of England and later as Archbishop of York.
Life and Historical Context
Born around 1225, Giffard was the son of Hugh Giffard, a royal justice, and Sibyl, a daughter and co-heiress of Walter de Cormeilles. His family was well-connected, with his brother Godfrey Giffard also becoming a bishop and Lord Chancellor, and his sister Mabel serving as Abbess of Shaftesbury Abbey. Walter was entrusted with the care of the young Prince Edward in 1239. He pursued higher education, studying at Cambridge University and earning a Master of Arts from Oxford University, where his scholarly talents were recognized by Adam Marsh. He took holy orders, becoming a canon and archdeacon of Wells, and a papal chaplain.
Career and Contributions
Giffard's ecclesiastical career advanced rapidly. He was elected Bishop of Bath and Wells on May 22, 1264, and consecrated in Paris on January 4, 1265. Following the Battle of Evesham in August 1265, King Henry III appointed Giffard as Lord Chancellor, a position he held until his elevation to the Archbishopric of York. In this secular role, he was appointed as one of the arbitrators for the Dictum of Kenilworth in 1266, which provided a means for disinherited lords to recover their estates. On October 15, 1266, Pope Clement IV appointed him Archbishop of York, and he was enthroned on November 1, 1266.
As Archbishop, Giffard became involved in disputes with Archbishop Boniface of Canterbury regarding the right to carry his cross erect in the southern province. He also played a role in national governance, being entrusted with the Great Seal upon King Henry III's death and appointed to govern the Kingdom with Roger Mortimer and Robert Burnell until the return of the new king, Edward I, in 1274. He again served in this capacity during the king's absence in 1275. Giffard officiated at the translation of Edward the Confessor's relics in 1269 and was appointed by Prince Edward as a tutor for his sons in 1270.
Financial Challenges and Philanthropy
Despite family wealth and the income from his offices, Giffard struggled with debt, making payments to Italian money-lenders and merchants. He also sent funds to agents in Rome to manage his affairs and avoid usury. Nevertheless, he demonstrated kindness to his relatives, supporting his nephew's education and granting his brother the Archdeaconry of York. His register indicates numerous gifts to the poor and support for schoolmasters at Beverley. He also aided the scholarly careers of his successors at York, John le Romeyn and William Greenfield.
Death and Legacy
Walter Giffard died in York on or about April 22, 1279, and was buried in York Minster. Contemporary accounts describe him as a handsome, happy, and genial man, though in later life, he grew fat, affecting his health and temper. He was recognized as a man of high character, ability, and industry. Archbishop Thoresby later moved his body to a tomb he had erected in the presbytery of York Minster.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Walter Giffard?
Walter Giffard was an English churchman who held significant positions as Lord Chancellor of England and later as Archbishop of York. He was born around 1225 and died in 1279.
What were Walter Giffard's major roles?
Giffard served as Lord Chancellor of England from August 1265 until he was appointed Archbishop of York in October 1266. Prior to these roles, he was the Bishop of Bath and Wells.
When was Walter Giffard appointed Archbishop of York?
Pope Clement IV appointed Walter Giffard to the Archbishopric of York on October 15, 1266. He was enthroned on November 1, 1266.
What was Walter Giffard's family background?
Walter Giffard was the son of Hugh Giffard, a royal justice, and Sibyl, a daughter of Walter de Cormeilles. His brother was Bishop Godfrey Giffard, and his sister Mabel was the Abbess of Shaftesbury Abbey.
Where did Walter Giffard study?
Walter Giffard studied at Cambridge University and earned his Master of Arts degree from Oxford University. His scholarly abilities were noted by Adam Marsh.
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