William Zouche
William Zouche served as Archbishop of York from 1342 until his death in 1352 and also held the position of Lord Treasurer of England. He played a significant role in the Battle of Neville's Cross, leading English troops against the Scots. During his tenure, he also navigated the challenges posed by the Black Death.
Key Facts
- ›Served as Archbishop of York from 1342 to 1352.
- ›Held the office of Lord Treasurer of England multiple times.
- ›Appointed Dean of York in 1336.
- ›Led English troops to victory at the Battle of Neville's Cross in 1346.
- ›Sought papal approval to ordain replacement clergy due to the Black Death.
- ›Founded and began building a chantry chapel in York Minster.
Lord Treasurer of England, Archbishop of York, Keeper of the Wardrobe, Controller of the Wardrobe, Lord Privy Seal, Archdeacon of Barnstaple, Archdeacon of Exeter, Dean of York, Warden of the Marches, Led Troops At the Battle of Neville's Cross
About William Zouche
William Zouche, Archbishop of York
William Zouche (1299–1352) was a prominent English churchman and administrator who served as the Archbishop of York from 1342 until his death. He also held the significant secular office of Lord Treasurer of England at various times.
Life and Career
Born in 1299, Zouche was educated at Oxford University, where he earned Master of Arts and Bachelor of Canon Law degrees before entering holy orders. His administrative career began with service as a royal chaplain, followed by appointments within the royal household and the Treasury. He served as Keeper of the Wardrobe (1329–1334), Controller of the Wardrobe (1334–1335), and Lord Privy Seal (1335–1337). He was promoted to Lord Treasurer in 1337, holding the post intermittently until May 1340. Zouche also advanced in ecclesiastical appointments, becoming Archdeacon of Barnstaple in 1329, Archdeacon of Exeter in 1330, and Dean of York in 1336.
Election as Archbishop and Military Service
In 1340, the Canons of York Minster elected Zouche as Archbishop of York, despite King Edward III's preference for his secretary. After a two-year delay, Zouche was consecrated by Pope Clement VI at Avignon on July 7, 1342. Although he had previously fallen out of royal favour, he was reinstated in 1346 when appointed a Warden of the Marches. In this capacity, he played a crucial role in the English victory over the Scots at the Battle of Neville's Cross near Durham on October 18, 1346. The king's gratitude led to Zouche being asked to continue his watch over the Scottish Marches.
Later Years and Legacy
During Zouche's tenure as archbishop, England was ravaged by the Black Death. In response to the widespread mortality, he sought papal permission in 1349 to consecrate additional burial grounds and ordain new clergy to fill vacant positions. William Zouche died on July 19, 1352, at Cawood Palace and was buried in York Minster. He initiated the construction of a chantry chapel adjacent to the choir, though it was later demolished.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When did William Zouche serve as Archbishop of York?
William Zouche served as Archbishop of York from 1342 until his death on July 19, 1352.
What other significant roles did William Zouche hold?
Before becoming Archbishop, William Zouche served as Lord Treasurer of England, Keeper of the Wardrobe, Controller of the Wardrobe, and Lord Privy Seal. He was also Dean of York.
What was William Zouche's involvement in the Battle of Neville's Cross?
In 1346, as a Warden of the Marches, William Zouche led English troops that defeated the Scots at the Battle of Neville's Cross. King Edward III was very pleased with his contribution.
How did the Black Death affect William Zouche's archdiocese?
During Zouche's time as archbishop, the Black Death spread throughout England and his province. In 1349, he sought papal approval to consecrate additional burial grounds and ordain replacement clergy to address the crisis.
Where was William Zouche buried and what did he build?
William Zouche died at Cawood Palace and was buried before the altar of St Edward in the nave of York Minster. He also founded and began the construction of a chantry chapel adjoining the south wall of the choir.
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