Regency Personalities Series-Richard Beadon Bishop of Bath and Wells

Regency Personalities Series

In my attempts to provide us with the details of the Regency, today I continue with one of the many period notables.

Richard Beadon Bishop of Bath and Wells

1737 – 21 April 1824

Richard Beadon

Richard Beadon Bishop of Bath and Wells was Master of Jesus College, Cambridge 1781–1789 and later Vice-Chancellor of the University, Bishop of Gloucester and Bishop of Bath and Wells.

Beadon was born at Pinkworthy in Devon, son of the Rev. Robert Beadon, Rector of Oakford. He was educated at Blundell’s School and admitted to St John’s College, Cambridge in 1754. He was eighth Wrangler and Senior Chancellor’s Medallist in 1758.

He married Rachel, granddaughter of Bishop Gooch, of Ely, and had one son, Richard.

It is said he was admirable both as Master and Vice-Chancellor, and a very handsome man. His portrait survives in the College.

Fellow and Tutor of St. John’s
Archdeacon of London, 1775–1789
Master of Jesus College, 1781–1789
Tutor to Prince Frederick William, afterwards Duke of Gloucester
Bishop of Gloucester, 1789–1802
Bishop of Bath and Wells, 1802–1824