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William of Durham

d. 1249

Founder of University College, Oxford

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About William of Durham

William of Durham was an English and British academic and theologian.

Coat of arms of University College, Oxford, whose foundation arose from William of Durham's bequest.

William of Durham (died 1249) is said to have founded University College, Oxford, England. He most likely came from Sedgefield, County Durham and was educated at Wearmouth monastery and in Paris, France.

William of Durham was archdeacon of Caux and (in 1235, for a few months) archbishop-elect of Rouen in Normandy, France.

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Important facts

Died
1249, Rouen

Frequently asked questions

Who was William of Durham?

Founder of University College, Oxford

When did William of Durham die?

William of Durham died in 1249 in Rouen.

What was William of Durham's occupation?

William of Durham was an academic and theologian.

What nationality was William of Durham?

William of Durham was English and British.

Sources & further reading

· Wikipedia: William of Durham

· Wikidata: Q8020870

· DBpedia: William of Durham

Cite this page

APA: Biography.guide. (2026). William of Durham. https://biography.guide/william-of-durham/

MLA: "William of Durham." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/william-of-durham/.

Chicago: "William of Durham." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/william-of-durham/.

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