Richard Marsh

Richard Marsh (died 1 May 1226), also called Richard de Marisco, served as Lord Chancellor of England and Bishop of Durham.

Early career

Marsh attended a university, as he was styled magister, but which university it was is unknown. His ancestry and upbringing likewise are unknown. He was a royal clerk and canon of Exeter Cathedral before becoming Archdeacon of Northumberland by 1 November 1211. He was also Archdeacon of Richmond. During that time he was also serving in the financial administration. In 1210, he earned a mention as one of the king's "evil counsellors." However, his title was mostly honorary after his election as a bishop in 1217, for he no longer attended court all the time, and Ralph Neville, who had custody of the king's seal, did most of the actual work of the office of chancellor. and consecrated probably on 2 July 1217. His election had been promoted by the papal legate, Guala Bicchieri, and his consecration was performed by Archbishop Walter de Gray of York at Gloucester. Marsh continued the quarrel between the cathedral chapter and the bishops over the revenues and rights of the monks.

Death and legacy Marsh died on 1 May 1226, quite suddenly at Peterborough Abbey while on his way to London for a hearing in the lawsuit between the monks and himself. His nephew, Adam Marsh, was his heir, and received his large library as a bequest.