[Hebrew Bible.]
John Williams (born 25th March 1582, died 25th March 1650) was the son of Edmond Williams of Conway, and was educated at Ruthin Grammar School and at Cambridge. In 1603 he was ordained, and he soon became known as an able preacher. After holding several minor ecclesiastical preferments and enjoying the favour of James I., he was made Dean of Salisbury in 1619. In 1620 Dr. Williams became Dean of Westminster, and in 1621 he was consecrated Bishop of Lincoln. In the House of Lords Bishop Williams took a very important part in the discussions and legislation concerning the power of the Sovereign in 1628.
In 1635 the Bishop's enemies succeeded in bringing him before the Star Chamber on a charge of subornation of perjury, and he was condemned to a heavy fine and loss of profits of his many benefices. He was imprisoned in the Tower until he was granted an unconditional release by the House of Lords in 1640. In 1641, with other Bishops, Williams was again committed to the Tower on a charge of high treason, but soon escaped, forfeiting his bail. He again took a leading part in the proceedings of the House of Lords, and was translated to the Archbishopric of York, where he was enthroned in 1642.
Archbishop Williams worked hard for the Royalist cause; he fortified Conway Castle and organised the militia. He was possessed of considerable wealth, and was liberal and charitable. Several of his sermons and speeches were published.
WINDSOR, THOMAS, SIXTH BARON WINDSOR
Arms.—Quarterly.
1. Gu., a saltire between 12 crosses pattée or. Windsor.
2. Barry nebuly or and sa. Blount.