Jesus College Oxford: A Journey Through History

Jesus College is one of the most renowned and historic colleges at Oxford University, steeped in a rich history that spans over 450 years. Founded in 1571, this college has played a significant role in the academic and cultural landscape of Oxford, producing some of the most influential scholars, leaders, and thinkers of our time. From its humble beginnings as a small theological college to its current status as one of the Top Oxford Admissions Tutors, Jesus College has evolved and adapted, while still holding on to its traditional values and ethos. This article delves into the fascinating story of Jesus College, exploring its origins, notable alumni, and its enduring impact on Oxford University.

The Foundation and Early Years

Royal Charter and Initial Purpose

Jesus College was founded on June 27, 1571, when Elizabeth I issued a royal charter. It was the first Protestant college to be founded at the university, and it is the only Oxford college to date from Elizabeth's reign. It was the first new Oxford college since 1555, in the reign of Queen Mary, when Trinity College and St John's College were founded as Roman Catholic colleges. The foundation charter named a principal (David Lewis), eight fellows, eight scholars, and eight commissioners to draw up the statutes for the college.

The main purpose of this, of course, was to educate Protestant churchmen to effectively spread the Protestant faith around England as Queen Elizabeth wished. The college was originally intended primarily for the education of clergy. The particular intention was to satisfy a need for dedicated, learned clergy to promote the Elizabethan Religious Settlement in the parishes of England, Ireland and Wales. The college has since broadened the range of subjects offered, beginning with the inclusion of medicine and law, and now offers almost the full range of subjects taught at the university.

Hugh Price and Early Benefactions

A major driving force behind the establishment of the college was Hugh Price (or Ap Rhys), a churchman from Brecon in Wales. The commissioners included Hugh Price, who had petitioned the queen to found a college at Oxford "that he might bestow his estate of the maintenance of certain scholars of Wales to be trained up in good letters." The charter also transferred to the college the land and buildings of White Hall, an academic hall on part of the current site.

Price continued to be closely involved with the college after its foundation. On the strength of a promised legacy, worth £60 a year on his death (approximately £21,100 in present-day terms), he requested and received the authority to appoint the new college's principal, fellows and scholars. He financed early building work in the college's front quadrangle, but on his death in 1574 it transpired that the college received only a lump sum of around £600 (approximately £211,000 in present-day terms). Problems with his bequest meant that it was not received in full for about 25 years. Other benefactions in the 17th century include Herbert Westfaling, the Bishop of Hereford, who left enough property to support two fellowships and scholarships (with the significant proviso that "my kindred shallbe always preferred before anie others").

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Location and Early Buildings

The foundation charter listed out the space the college would physically occupy when Queen Elizabeth "gave the greatest parte of the ground whereupon the College is built". These two buildings along with Lawrence, part of Lincoln College, merged to be referred to as White Hall. The location of Jesus College is on the “land which was given by the queen extended from Ship St. to Market St., and … was occupied by two tenements; on the north was Little White Hall, facing the city walls; on the south was Great White Hall in Market St. (or Chayny Lane) belonging to St. Frideswide’s”.

To ensure the rights to the properties, once the land was being populated with buildings, the College acquired a lease from Lincoln College for Laurence Hall (which was paid at £2 per annum until 1816) plus paid a quit-rent to Christ Church for White Hall which was initially 26 shillings and 8 pence, but it had been reduced before 1631 and listed as 8 pence until 1833 when the property was purchased out-right.

The oldest buildings, in the first quadrangle, date from the 16th and early 17th centuries. The buildings that now surround the first quadrangle were erected in stages between 1571 and the 1620s; the principal's lodgings were the last to be built.

17th and 18th Centuries: Growth and Consolidation

Chapel, Hall, and Library Construction

Sir Eubule Thelwall (principal 1621-1630) spent much of his own money on the construction of a chapel, hall and library for the college. The chapel was dedicated on 28 May 1621, and extended in 1636. The architectural historian Giles Worsley has described the chapel's east window (added in 1636) as an instance of Gothic Revival architecture, rather than Gothic Survival, since a choice was made to use an outdated style - classical architecture had become accepted as "the only style in which it was respectable to build".

The Fellows' Library, built in 1676, retains its Carolean bookcases and furniture.

English Civil War and Restoration

The English Civil War "all but destroyed the corporate life of the college." Mansell was removed from his position as principal and Michael Roberts was installed. After the Restoration, Mansell was briefly reinstated as principal, before resigning in favour of Leoline Jenkins. It was Jenkins (principal 1661-1673) who secured the long-term viability of the college. On his death, in 1685, he bequeathed a large complex of estates, acquired largely by lawyer friends from the over-mortgaged landowners of the Restoration period.

A Period of Routine

The 18th century, in contrast to the disruption of the 17th century, was a comparatively quiet time for the college. A historian of the college, J. N. L. Baker, wrote that the college records for this time "tell of little but routine entries and departures of fellows and scholars".

Jonathan Edwards (principal from 1686 to 1712) is reported to have spent £1,000 (approximately £189,000 in present-day terms) during his lifetime on the interior of the chapel, including the addition of a screen separating the main part of the chapel from the ante-chapel (at the west end) in 1693.

19th and 20th Centuries: Reform and Expansion

Napoleonic Wars and Academic Decline

The Napoleonic Wars saw a reduction in the numbers of students and entries in the records for the purchase of muskets and other items for college members serving in the university corps. After the war, numbers rose, to an average of twenty new students per year between 1821 and 1830. However, debts owed to the college had increased, perhaps due to the economic effects of the war - by 1832, the college was owed £986 10s 5d (approximately £115800 in present-day terms).

During the first half of the 19th century, the academic strength of the college diminished: scholarships were sometimes not awarded because of a lack of suitable candidates, and numbers fell: there were only seven new entrants in 1842. Ernest Hardy wrote in his history of the college in 1899 that it had been becoming "increasingly evident for years…

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Royal Commissions and Limited Reforms

A Royal Commission was appointed in 1852 to investigate the university. The college wished to retain its links with Wales, and initial reforms were limited despite the wishes of the commissioners: those scholarships that were limited to particular parts of Wales were opened to the whole of Wales, and half of the fellowships awarded were to remain open only to Welshmen "'if and so long as the Principal and Fellows shall deem it expedient for the interests of education in connection with the Principality of Wales'". All the scholarships at the college, except for two, and all the exhibitions were still restricted to students from Wales.

Continuing Decline and Further Royal Commission

The numbers of students at the college still fell, despite prizes being awarded for success in university examinations. Daniel Harper, principal from 1877 to 1895, noted the continuing academic decline. Speaking in 1879, he noted that fewer students from the college were reaching high standards in examinations, and that more Welsh students were choosing to study at other Oxford colleges in preference to Jesus. A further Royal Commission was appointed.

Chapel Restoration

In 1853, stained glass by George Hedgeland was added to the east window. In 1863, the architect George Edmund Street was appointed to renovate the chapel. The arch of the chancel was widened, the original Jacobean woodwork was removed (save for the screen donated by Edwards and the pulpit), new seats were installed, new paving was placed in the main part of the chapel and a stone reredos was added behind the altar. On 21 October 1864, Building News reported that the restoration was nearing completion and was of "a very spirited character".

World Wars and Academic Expansion

During the First World War, "the college in the ordinary sense almost ceased to exist". From 129 students in the summer of 1914, numbers dropped to 36 in the spring of 1916. Some refugee students from Belgium and Serbia lodged in empty rooms in the college during 1916, and officers of the Royal Flying Corps resided from August 1916 to December 1918.

After the war, numbers rose and fellowships were added in new subjects: history (1919 and 1933); theology (1927); physics (1934); a second fellowship in chemistry (1924); and modern languages (lectureship 1921, fellowship 1944).

During the Second World War, many of the fellows served in the armed forces or carried out war work in Oxford.

Science Laboratories and Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) Link

The college had its own science laboratories from 1907 to 1947, which were overseen (for all but the last three years) by the physical chemist David Chapman, a fellow of the college from 1907 to 1944. At the time of their closure, they were the last college-based science laboratories at the university. They were named the Sir Leoline Jenkins laboratories, after a former principal of the college. The laboratories led to scientific research and tuition (particularly in chemistry) becoming an important part of the college's academic life. A link between one of the college science lecturers and Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) led to 17 students joining ICI between the two World Wars, some, such as John Rose, reaching senior levels in the company.

Quatercentenary and New Buildings

Further accommodation was built on the main site to mark the 400th anniversary of the college, in 1971, and student flats have been constructed at sites in north and east Oxford. The Old Members' Building, which contains a music room, 24 study-bedrooms and some lecture rooms, was built between 1969 and 1971. It was built after a fundraising appeal to Old Members to mark the college's quatercentenary, and was opened by the Prince of Wales in 1971.

Third Quadrangle

A second quadrangle was added between about 1640 and about 1713, and a third quadrangle was built in about 1906.

Traditions and Culture

Welsh Connection

Jesus College has the reputation of being the major "Welsh" college at Oxford, and certainly a large number of Welsh students have passed through its portals, though nothing in its charter indicates that this was its intended role. Queen Elizabeth I founded Jesus College for the purpose of converting the Welsh to Protestantism by training clergymen for the recently established Anglican Church. The queen herself came from a Welsh family, the Tudors. The benefactor, Hugh Price, endowed it with the income from his Welsh estates. Traditionally the students were predominantly Welsh, although reform has made the student body more diverse.

Coat of Arms

Jesus College's coat of arms, a green background with three white stags, is thought to be related to Maud Green, Lady Parr (mother of Catherine Parr, the sixth wife of King Henry VIII) - because Lady Parr's coat of arms is reportedly very similar.

Academic Programs

Through its rich history, Jesus College has evolved to meet the ever-changing needs of its students. Today, the college offers a wide range of academic programs, spanning from the arts and humanities to the sciences and social sciences. Students have the opportunity to pursue degrees in subjects such as English, History, Law, Mathematics, Physics, and more. With small class sizes and a strong emphasis on student engagement, Jesus College provides a supportive and stimulating environment for students to thrive in their academic pursuits. The college also prides itself on its innovative and dynamic approach to teaching and learning. As times change and new challenges arise, Jesus College continues to adapt and evolve, always striving to provide the best possible education for its students.

Campus Life and Social Activities

Jesus College has a vibrant social scene, with numerous events and activities throughout the year for students to participate in. From formal dinners and balls to movie nights and game tournaments, there is always something going on to help students unwind and connect with their peers. For those who are interested in sports, Jesus College has a variety of athletic clubs that students can join. These include football, rugby, rowing, cricket, and more. These clubs not only provide opportunities for students to stay active and compete against other colleges, but they also foster a sense of camaraderie and team spirit.

As with other colleges at Oxford University, Jesus College offers a variety of housing options for its students. From traditional dorm-style rooms to modern apartments, students can choose the type of accommodation that best suits their needs and preferences. This not only provides a comfortable living space, but also allows for interactions with fellow students from different backgrounds and cultures.

Admissions Process

As one of the oldest and most prestigious colleges at Oxford University, the admissions process at Jesus College is highly competitive and rigorous. Prospective students must possess exceptional academic qualifications, as well as demonstrate a passion for their chosen field of study. The college is committed to admitting students from all backgrounds, and offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support those in financial need. To become a member of Jesus College, applicants must first submit their application through the central University admissions process, where they will be considered alongside applicants for other colleges. If successful, they will then be invited to attend an interview with tutors from Jesus College. This interview is an important part of the admissions process, as it allows tutors to get to know the applicant on a personal level and assess their potential to thrive within the college's academic community. While academic qualifications are important, Jesus College also values qualities such as intellectual curiosity, critical thinking skills, and a strong work ethic. Applicants are encouraged to showcase these qualities in their personal statement and interview. Overall, the admissions process at Jesus College is designed to select the best and brightest students who will contribute to the college's rich history and continue its legacy of academic excellence.

Notable Alumni and Fellows

Many famous people have studied at Jesus College. Former students include Harold Wilson (who was twice Prime Minister of the United Kingdom), Kevin Rudd (Prime Minister of Australia), Norman Washington Manley (Prime Minister of Jamaica), T. E. Lawrence ("Lawrence of Arabia"), Angus Buchanan (winner of the Victoria Cross), Viscount Sankey (Lord Chancellor), Edwin Yoder (Pulitzer Prize winning journalist), Roger Parry (media and technology entrepreneur) and over 30 Members of Parliament.

Past or present fellows of the college include the historians Sir Goronwy Edwards, Yuval Noah Harari and Niall Ferguson, the philosopher Galen Strawson, and the political philosopher John Gray. Past students and fellows in the sciences include John Houghton (physicist) and Nobel Laureate Peter J.

T.E. Lawrence

Lawrence studied at Oxford High School and gained a scholarship to Jesus College in 1907. He took virtually no part in college life and attended few lectures, although he graduated with first class honours in 1910. Lawrence returned to Oxford in 1919 when he was offered a fellowship at All Souls College. It was here that the first version of Lawrence’s great work The Seven Pillars of Wisdom appeared. The work opens with a poem dedicated to Ahmad explicitly links his love for the youth to his involvement with the Arab Revolt against the Turks in 1918. Seven Pillars also includes an account of how Lawrence had been raped after capture by Turkish authorities in Deraa in 1917.

William Dickey

Poet William Dickey (1928-1994) studied at Jesus as a Fulbright scholar from 1959-1960. In 1959 his first collection of poetry, Of the Festivity, was selected by WH Auden as the winner of the Yale Series of Younger Poets Competition. In a long and celebrated career Dickey subsequently authored 15 books of poetry.

Neal Blewett

Australian politician Dr Neal Blewett, AC (b. 1933) studied Philosophy, Politics and Economics as a Rhodes scholar at Jesus from 1957-1959. Blewett was an Australian Labor Party member of the House of Representatives from 1977-1994. As Minister for Health in Bob Hawke’s government, Blewett was responsible for the Australian national strategy to combat HIV/AIDS, now considered his greatest legacy. He was made an Honorary Fellow of Jesus in 1998. Blewett came out publicly in 2000.

The Modern College

Current Administration

The college is run by the Principal and Fellows. The Principal must be "a person distinguished for literary or scientific attainments, or for services in the work of education in the University or elsewhere". The Principal has "pre-eminence and authority over all members of the College and all persons connected therewith" and exercises "a general superintendence in all matters relating to education and discipline". The current Principal, Sir Nigel Shadbolt, was appointed in 2015. He will be succeeded by Lindsay Skoll, the first ever female principal of the college, in October 2025.

Jesus Professor of Celtic

One of these professorships is the Jesus Professor of Celtic, which is the only chair in Celtic Studies at an English university. Celtic scholars such as Sir John Rhys and Ellis Evans have held the position since its creation in 1877. The chair is currently held by David Willis, who took up the position in 2020 after the previous holder Thomas Charles-Edwards retired in 2011.

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