Rector - Matthew Smallwood (1614- 1683)
Matthew Smallwood PQ2M-GVZ (sometimes spelt Smalwood) was born on 15th February 1614 in Middlewich, Cheshire. He was educated at Brasenose College, Oxford and became a ‘Sanctae Theologial Professor’ or Professor of Sacred Theology.
After Oxford, Matthew held the living at St. Martin Orgar in London, which is the church mentioned in the children’s song ‘Oranges and Lemons’. The unusual name of the church is believed to have derived from Ordgarus, a Dane who donated this church to the canons of St. Paul’s Cathedral. Sadly, most of the building was destroyed in 1666 during the Great Fire of London. Only a section of the nave and the tower survived; these were restored and used by the Huguenots until c.1820.
Other livings held by Reverend Smallwood were Gawsworth in Cheshire and St. Cuthbert’s church in Halsall, Lancashire where he was appointed rector on 20th February 1660, under the patronage of Lord Gerard of Brandon (aka Charles Gerard who was created the 1st Earl of Macclesfield in 1679). Eleven years later Reverend Smallwood was appointed Dean of Lichfield Cathedral where he served until his death on 26th April 1683.
According to the Calendar of the Principal Ecclesiastical Dignitaries, 314-1853, he was buried inside Lichfield Cathedral. He was still the rector of Halsall at the time of his death and was succeeded by Reverend Nathaniel Brownell, again under the patronage of the 1st Earl of Macclesfield. Charles Gerard, 1st Earl of Macclesfield – Wikipedia
During his illustrious career, Reverend Matthew Smallwood was also appointed Canon of St. Paul’s Cathedral in London and Chaplain to King Charles ll of England. Charles II of England – Wikipedia
After his death, the West prospect of Lichfield Cathedral was dedicated to Reverend Matthew Smallwood.
