William Jackson (bishop)

William Jackson (1751 – 2 December 1815, Cuddesdon) was an Anglican cleric, serving as bishop of Oxford (as second choice after his elder brother Cyril Jackson refused the post) and Clerk of the Closet.

Jackson was educated at Manchester Grammar School, Westminster School and Christ Church, Oxford (where his tutors included Francis Atterbury). He served as Regius Professor of Greek from 1783 to 1811.

He was a popular, convivial and hospitable man with something of a reputation for hard drinking. Spencer Perceval, the Prime Minister, questioned his suitability on that ground; but the Prince Regent, who was a friend of Jackson's replied that he could see no objection to a Bishop eating well and drinking port.[1]

References

  1. Fulford, Roger Royal Dukes William Collins Son and Co. 1933
Academic offices
Preceded by
John Randolph
Regius Professor of Greek
1783–1811
Succeeded by
Thomas Gaisford
Church of England titles
Preceded by
Charles Moss
Bishop of Oxford
1812–1815
Succeeded by
Edward Legge
Court offices
Preceded by
George Pelham
Clerk of the Closet
1813–1815
Succeeded by
Richard Hurd