Oriel College, Oxford

History

Founded in 1324 by Adam de Brome and given its charter in 1326 by Edward II, Oriel is the fifth oldest of Oxford's colleges, and the oldest college that doesn't habitually claim it is the oldest college. Its original name was 'The House of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Oxford', the name Oriel being used from about 1349 (its origin being unclear). In the 19th century Oriel was at the centre of the Oxford Movement. In 1902, Oriel incorporated nearby St Mary's Hall, which had been a separate institution. Nowadays Oriel is known as the last all-male college to admit women in 1985. It has a reputation for public school heartiness exemplified by its success in rowing.

Notable Former Students

• Sir Walter Raleigh
• Cardinal William Allen
• James Howard Harris, 3rd Earl of Malmesbury
• Cecil Rhodes
• Beau Brummel
• A L Rowse
• W.C. Sellar & R.J. Yeatman (1066 and All That)
• J. I. M. Stewart (Michael Innes)
• Ronald Syme
• A J P Taylor
• Joseph Warton
• Samuel Wilberforce
• Sandy Wilson
• Michael Wood

Academics/Teachers

• Matthew Arnold
• John Keble
• John Henry Newman

Official Website

http://www.oriel.ox.ac.uk/

Referenced By