Jeanne Shami, Adam Richter
ODNB (Article: 29421), AO (Foster)
Theologian, natural philosopher, and linguist known for his universal language project. Precise date of birth unknown, but Wilkins matriculated at New Inn Hall, Oxford in 1627 at age 13. Transferred to Magdalen College, Oxford shortly thereafter. B.A. (1631), M.A. (1634) from Magdalen. Briefly vicar of Fawsley, Northampstonshire, beginning in 1637. Preacher at Gray's Inn beginning in 1645 and again beginning in 1661. Created B.D in 1648 and D.D. in 1649. Warden of Wadham College, Oxford, 1648-1659. Master of Trinity College, Cambridge, 1658-1660. Made Dean of Ripon and prebendary of York in 1660. Rector of Cranford, Middlesex beginning in 1661. Vicar of St Lawrence Jewry, 1662-1668. Rector of Polebrook, Northamptonshire in 1666. Bishop of Chester from 1668 until his death in 1672.