Edward Stanley

Who was Edward Stanley?

Edward Stanley FRS was a British clergyman and Bishop of Norwich between 1837 and 1849.

Born in London into a notable Cheshire family, Stanley was the second son of Sir John Stanley, 6th Baronet, and the younger brother of John Stanley, 1st Baron Stanley of Alderley.

Educated at St John's College, Cambridge, he was ordained in 1802 and three years later became rector of Alderley, Cheshire, a position he held for the next 32 years. Here he took a great interest in education, and encouraged especially the teaching of secular subjects at his school.

In 1837 he was consecrated Bishop of Norwich. The diocese at this time was conspicuous for laxity and want of discipline and this he proceeded to remedy, although at first he met with much opposition. Ordinations and confirmations were held more regularly and frequently, the schools were properly inspected, the Plurality Act was enforced and undesirable clergy were removed. He was tolerant towards Dissenters and supported all missionary undertakings without regarding their sectarian associations. In politics he was a Liberal and devoted himself especially to educational questions.