Walter de Merton

A gifted cleric in high-medieval England, he was awarded for his services by the Church leaders and King Henry III with the incomes from land (benefices) and Church parishes throughout England. He used his wealth to establish a Merton College at Oxford University.

Born in a family of William and Christina Fitz-Oliver, he was the only son of eight children. His mother owned a land in Basingstoke, and until 1233 he was known by his birthplace as Basingstoke. In the early 1240's, in Basingstoke, Walter established an almshouse in honor of his dead parents.

At an early age he was sent to Merton Priory in Surrey, and later to Mauger Hall, Oxford for education. He took the surname de Merton from the priory. In 1242 de Merton entered the service of Nicholas Farnham, Bishop of Durham, and when bishop resigned in 1249 he returned to south to become King’s clerk and chancellor. As royal chancellor, Walter became King Henry III’s right hand, and continued to serve under his successor, King Edward I.

In 1259 he was made Canon of St. Paul’s. From 1272 until 1274 he was in charge for the great seal of England which earned him a great prestige and power in kingdom. For his many years of service, in 1274 he was elected Bishop of Rochester as reward.

In history he is perhaps most significant for his foundation of Merton College at Oxford University.