Thomas Eyre (divine)

Thomas Eyre (1748-1810) was an English Catholic priest and educator. He is best known for his significant contributions to Catholic education in England during a period of legal restrictions against Catholics.

Eyre was born in Hope, Derbyshire. He studied at the English College, Douai, in France, a prominent seminary for English Catholics, and was ordained a priest in 1772. Upon returning to England, he served in various pastoral roles, including chaplain to the Haggerston family in Northumberland.

Recognizing the need for improved education for Catholic clergy in England, Eyre, with the support of Bishop William Gibson, established St. Mary's College, Ushaw, in 1808. This institution was initially intended as a refuge for students and faculty from Douai, which was facing disruption due to the French Revolution. Ushaw quickly became a leading seminary and educational center for English Catholics and played a pivotal role in the resurgence of Catholicism in England.

Eyre served as the first president of Ushaw College, shaping its academic and spiritual character. He remained in this position until his death in 1810. His legacy lies in the enduring impact of Ushaw College and its contribution to the training of generations of Catholic priests and the advancement of Catholic intellectual life in England.