ABSTRACT
Almost as soon as he had been consecrated bishop of Oxford in 1845, Samuel Wilberforce was making plans to establish a diocesan theological college near his episcopal palace at Cuddesdon.2 He proclaimed to his clergy that such an institution was in fact “essential” for the welfare of the diocese.3 Funds were rapidly raised and buildings designed by the diocesan architect, George E. Street (later famous for his work on London’s law courts and numerous ecclesiastical buildings). The foundation stone was laid in April 1853 and Cuddesdon College formally opened in June 1854 amidst great celebrations.4
