William IV grants Durham University’s Royal Charter…

William IV grants Durham University’s Royal Charter on June 1, 1837, with the first students graduating a week later.

The strong tradition of theological teaching in Durham had given rise to various attempts to form a university there, notably under King Henry VIII and Oliver Cromwell, who had issued letters patent and nominated a proctor and fellows for the establishment of a college in 1657.

However, there has been deep concern expressed continually by Oxford and Cambridge that the awarding of degree powers could hinder their position.

In 1832, Parliament, at the instigation of Archdeacon Charles Thorp and with the support of the Bishop of Durham, William van Mildert, finally passed "an Act to enable the Dean and Chapter of Durham to appropriate part of the property of their church to the establishment of a University in connection therewith" to fund a new university.

Accommodation has been provided in the Archdeacon's Inn from 1833 to 1837 when an order of the Queen-in-Council is issued granting the use of Durham Castle (previously the Bishop's palace) as a college of the university.

The Act received Royal Assent and became law on July 4, 1832.