RECTOR, VICAR, CURATE…OH MY!

Over the past several months, I’ve shared the stories of William Browne (1534-1613), Joseph Browne (1561-1633), and William Browne (1585-1650) who were members of the clergy during the Protestant Reformation. Trying to make sense of the Reformation’s impact on the church and to understand the various levels of clergy, however, nearly drove me batty.  

William Browne (1585-1650) – Curate, Schoolmaster & Merchant

Before my 10^th great grandfather William Browne was even born his future was seemingly laid out before him. Browne men, after all, were educated at Cambridge and spent their lives serving as the rector or vicar of a parish church. 

William Browne (1534-1613) - The Rector of Horley

In my previous post I told the story of Phebe Browne, my 9^th great grandmother, her journey to and life in America. Now it’s time for me to tell the story of her forefathers and the religious turmoil that impacted their lives.