Nicholas Wadham (1472–1542)

Nicholas Wadham (1472 – 1542) was a prominent English courtier, administrator, and landowner. He is best known as the patriarch of the Wadham family of Merrifield, Ilton, Somerset, and the great-great-grandfather of Nicholas Wadham (1531-1609), the co-founder, along with his wife Dorothy Wadham, of Wadham College, Oxford.

Wadham held numerous positions of responsibility during his lifetime. He served as Sheriff of Somerset on several occasions, including in 1503, 1513, and 1526. He was also a Justice of the Peace for Somerset, reflecting his position of local authority.

His influence extended into the royal court. He served under King Henry VIII, holding offices that required significant administrative skills and trustworthiness. He was involved in various royal commissions and undertakings, further demonstrating his importance in the governance of England during that period.

Wadham's wealth and status were largely derived from land ownership. He acquired significant estates in Somerset and elsewhere, which provided a considerable income and underpinned the family's social standing. His will reveals the extent of his landholdings and the careful provisions made for his descendants, paving the way for his great-great-grandson's later endowment of Wadham College.

While not directly involved in the founding of Wadham College, Nicholas Wadham (1472-1542) laid the financial and social foundation that made it possible. His legacy is thus interwoven with the history of one of Oxford University's distinguished colleges. He married Jane Hill, daughter and heiress of William Hill of Spaxton, Somerset.