William Greenfield

William Greenfield: Archbishop of York and Lord Chancellor

William Greenfield, also known as William of Greenfield, was a prominent figure in English ecclesiastical and political life, serving as both Archbishop of York and Lord Chancellor of England. His career spanned the late 13th and early 14th centuries, marked by significant service to the Crown and the Church.

Early Life and Education

Born in the Lincolnshire hamlet of Greenfield, the precise date of William Greenfield's birth is not recorded. However, his familial connection to Archbishop Walter Giffard proved instrumental in his early education. In 1269, Giffard funded Greenfield's studies at Oxford, demonstrating a commitment to his kinsman's intellectual development. Following his time in Oxford, Greenfield pursued further studies in Paris, where he achieved doctorates in both civil and canon law. This rigorous academic background prepared him for a career in both legal and administrative capacities.

Career in State Service

Greenfield entered the service of King Edward I around 1290, undertaking various roles that showcased his administrative acumen. Before his elevation to Archbishop, he held positions such as Dean of Chichester, Rector of Stratford-upon-Avon, and Temporal Chancellor of Durham. His most significant secular appointment was as Chancellor of England from 1302 to 1305. During his chancellorship, he received the custody of the great seal at St. Radegund's Abbey and utilized Adam of Osgodby as his substitute during his absence in France.

Archbishop of York

Greenfield's election as Archbishop of York occurred on December 4, 1304. His consecration by Pope Clement V took place at Lyons on January 30, 1306, following a delay attributed to the death of Pope Benedict XI. King Edward I strongly endorsed Greenfield to the Pope and cardinals, highlighting his "wisdom in council, industry, literary knowledge, and usefulness to the state." Greenfield's time as Archbishop coincided with a period when York served as a de facto capital due to the ongoing war with Scotland, with Parliament and Courts of Justice temporarily relocating there.

Later Life and Death

During the proceedings against the Templars in 1308, Greenfield expressed a favorable disposition towards the order, refusing to participate in actions against them within the province of Canterbury. He was, however, present at the Great Council of Vienne in 1312, where the Knights Templar were formally dissolved. William Greenfield died at his palace in Cawood on December 6, 1315. He was buried in the eastern part of the north transept of York Minster, where his monument remains. A gold ring with a ruby, recovered from his tomb in 1735, is preserved by the Cathedral authorities.